Salawa Abeni recounts how Tinubu came to her rescue during health crisis

Veteran Nigerian singer Salawa Abeni, popularly known as the queen of waka music, has recounted how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rescued her during one of the darkest periods of her life.

The renowned singer narrated the situation during her 50-year stage celebration, recalling how illness, grief, and financial hardship left her incapacitated.

According to Salawa, her health challenges began after the loss of her child and worsened to the point that she could barely walk and could not work for some time.

As her health deteriorated and little help was available, the singer said she decided to seek assistance from Tinubu, then a prominent political figure in Lagos State.

She recalled visiting his residence on Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, where he asked her to sit while he waited.

Salawa Abeni explained that when Tinubu eventually appeared, he initially struggled to recognise her because of the significant changes in her physical appearance caused by her health.

Salawa noted that she later travelled to Dubai for treatment, courtesy of the Lagos State Government, which helped her recover and return to the stage.

Beyond Tinubu, Salawa Abeni also acknowledged the support she had received from popular transport union leader MC Oluomo over the years, particularly during periods when she had no shows and struggled financially.