“I Was Dying” – Teni Opens Up About Battling Malaria While Performing in Ondo

Popular Nigerian singer, Teniola Apata, widely known as Teni, has shared a heartfelt story about her recent battle with severe malaria, revealing that she was sick for two weeks but still had to honor a performance in Ondo State.

In a lighthearted yet emotional video posted on her Instagram page on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the ‘Money’ crooner recounted her struggles and the extreme fatigue she experienced, joking that she almost asked her mother to wake her late father from the grave for help.

Teni’s Humorous Yet Painful Battle with Malaria

Teni, known for her energetic and playful personality, humorously blamed mosquitoes in Ikate for her illness and called on the Oba of Ikate to take action against them.

“Ah, e no go better for all the mosquitoes wey dey for Ikate. Oba, you need to find something to do about the mosquitoes in Ikate because malaria had me down,” she said in the video.

Despite her poor health, she pushed herself to perform in Ondo State, explaining that she could not afford to return the money she had been paid for the show.

“I almost called my mum that they should turn off the AC in the burial ground of my father because it’s like he wanted to take a nap. I said, ‘Wake up, your daughter is dying!’ I was down. I was weak for two weeks. I couldn’t eat,” she added.

“I Couldn’t Return the Money” – Teni’s Determination

Teni described how she struggled through the performance, emphasizing that she had no choice but to deliver despite being unwell.

“Look at me. I was dying, oh! Look at me just dancing, singing ‘For Your Case’ because I cannot return money. Any money that enters into my account, whichever money enters inside the sugar mummy account, it does not come back outside,” she said, making fans laugh with her signature humor.

She ended the video with a sobering reflection on health and wealth, writing in her caption:

“Money cannot buy you health o, na God.”

Fans React with Concern and Encouragement

Teni’s revelation has sparked a wave of reactions from fans, with many expressing concern for her health while also admiring her dedication to her craft. Some encouraged her to prioritize her well-being, while others applauded her resilience and sense of humor despite the tough situation.

Her story serves as a reminder of the challenges artists face behind the scenes, proving that the show must go on, no matter the circumstances.