The Nigerian music world has been left in mourning following the death of highlife legend Mike Ejeagha, who passed away on Friday evening, June 6, at the age of 95, after a prolonged illness.
The iconic musician, known for his influence on Igbo oral tradition, died at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, where he had been receiving medical care. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha.
Ejeagha’s music, which included the timeless hit “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” became a cultural touchstone in Nigeria, blending proverbs, morality tales, and clever wit into his highlife compositions. His unique ability to preserve Igbo folklore through music earned him the affectionate nickname “Gentleman.”
Though his music reached its peak popularity in the 1960s and 70s, Ejeagha experienced a resurgence in recent years. Social media comedian Brain Jotter played a key role in introducing his sound to a younger generation through online skits and tributes.
“He was a national treasure,” said Mr. Emeka in an interview with Africa Health Report, from his home in Abuja. “Ejeagha didn’t just sing—he preserved our culture through music. Each song was a living archive of our people’s wisdom and traditions.”
Describing him as a source of immense wisdom, Mr. Chukes added, “He lived a life full of purpose, pouring his soul into music and storytelling. His wisdom was unparalleled—he was our living library.”
Across social media, fans have expressed their sorrow at his passing. One fan tweeted: “With Mike Ejeagha’s passing, a whole era of storytelling dies. Who will sing our wisdom now?”
Mike Ejeagha’s death signals the end of an era in Nigerian highlife, but his music—preserved in vinyl, cassettes, and folklore archives—will continue to echo through generations to come.
Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.
