Veteran Nigerian Waka singer, Queen Salawa Abeni, has revealed that she battled paralysis for five years following the death of her first son.

The Waka music icon made the disclosure during an interview with YouTube channel Oyinmomo, where she reflected on some of the most difficult experiences of her life and career.

Salawa Abeni said she became paralysed from her neck down after losing her son and was dependent on other people for basic activities, including bathing and dressing. She said she was taken to different places in search of treatment and recovery but remained committed to her music career throughout the period.

The singer said she remained hopeful of recovering despite the severity of her condition.

She expressed gratitude for eventually regaining her health, describing her recovery as a result of God’s mercy.Reflecting on her early years in the music industry, Salawa Abeni also recalled experiencing serious health challenges while performing, including episodes in which she vomited blood on stage.

The singer, who has been associated with Waka music for more than four decades, also clarified the history of the genre. She said she did not create Waka music, explaining that the genre was already being performed by older women before she began her career.

Salawa Abeni rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s leading Waka musicians and has remained an influential figure in the traditional music genre for decades.