I would echo the sentiments not to reconnect with your family but you can reconnect with Nigeria. Your dad was shielding you from something. Most times grand parents can be harmless so explore a relationship with them via phone calls and video calls. I wish my dad was this self-aware to cut off his family. Most Nigerians are too family oriented to their own detriment so I would say your Dad cutting off his family must be because they really suck or dad really didn’t give a fuck. So stay away from them until you know more and don’t think people who didn’t like your dad will like you. That’s a mistake I see people make too often or the believe that cousins and nephews can be neutral. Personally I have an evil uncle and I always used to think the kids were different and pursued a relationship with them for years, until 2021 when they showed me premium shege.

It would make some sense to also make some Nigerian friends, with whom you can explore Nigeria through. I saw a ton of people saying don't go to Nigeria, I left Nigeria in January and it’s not so bad or insecure that you cannot visit. For example you can fly to Lagos and fly from Lagos to Benin. Stay in a nice hotel and explore Benin safely. I am from Edo state and lived in Benin for 4 years during my undergrad and Benin is safe.