(Niniola Apata and Michael Ndika. Photo Credit: Pulse Nigeria)

Afro-house sensation Niniola Apata, celebrated for her Grammy-nominated work, has announced the tragic passing of her beloved husband, Michael Ndika, in a series of poignant Instagram stories posted early Wednesday.

Ndika, the visionary behind NaijaReview—a leading multimedia hub for Afro-house and modern African music—leaves behind a legacy of innovation in the industry.

While the cause of his untimely death remains private, Niniola poured her sorrow into heartfelt tributes, reflecting on their 13-year journey together with touching photos and a simple yet profound acknowledgment of divine will.

Known for fiercely guarding her personal life, the singer has opted to keep further details surrounding his passing out of the public eye.

Niniola, 39, first captured hearts as a standout contestant on Project Fame West Africa in 2013, a breakthrough that propelled her into Nigeria’s musical spotlight.

Her meteoric rise continued with the global success of Maradona in 2017, a track that earned nods from icons like Beyoncé, Drake, and Timbaland, cementing her status as a trailblazer in Afro-house.