Why Nyota Ndogo Thinks Esther Musila is Struggling with Public Scrutiny

Veteran coastal musician Nyota Ndogo has spent 25 years in the spotlight. In that time, she has seen the best and worst of the Kenyan internet.

During a candid interview with Radio Maisha, the musician shared her perspective on online trolling and offered a word of advice to those struggling under the weight of public scrutiny.

The conversation turned to Esther Musila, the wife of gospel artist Guardian Angel. Musila recently expressed her frustration with persistent online bullies, even suggesting that some might face legal consequences.

Nyota Ndogo, who has faced years of criticism herself, suggested that the pressure might have caught Musila off guard.

The Weight of Fame

Nyota Ndogo observed that fame often brings unexpected challenges. She noted that when a person is not fully prepared for the intensity of the limelight, the constant noise from trolls can become overwhelming.

"I think Esther was not ready for this fame," Nyota remarked. She suggested that perhaps the reality of public life was more aggressive than Musila had anticipated.

ALSO READ: Nyota Ndogo Lists the Massive Wealth She Has Gained from Her 25-Yr Music Career

For Nyota, the secret to survival is knowing when to stay silent. She believes that responding to every critic is a losing battle.

"You cannot answer everything," she explained, advising that sometimes it is better to let the noise die down on its own.

"We were told very heavy words, but I say... You cannot answer everything."

A Strategy of Silence

The singer lives by a philosophy she calls "kujitoa ufahamu." This roughly translates to intentionally playing dumb or choosing to ignore the negativity around her. She believes that by not engaging with trolls, she protects her progress.

"Let people see me as a fool, as long as my affairs are moving forward," she said. This mindset has allowed her to focus on her business ventures rather than the opinions of strangers.

However, Nyota does have a breaking point. While she can ignore insults directed at her, she stated that she would only be deeply hurt if the trolls targeted her children.

"A child hurts," she noted, highlighting the one boundary she holds sacred.

Success as a Shield

Despite the "crushing" comments she received early in her career, Nyota has used her platform to build a significant legacy. She revealed that she now owns nine buildings, including a hotel, which she has funded largely through her music and business endeavors.

She also noted that her transparency has inspired others. At least 15 people have opened their own hotels after watching her journey online.

"I don't care how people see me out there, as long as mine are moving forward."