Olusegun Adeyemo
Renowned Highlife legend, Mike Ejeagha, known for transforming Igbo folklore and proverbs into captivating music, has passed away at the age of 95.
Ejeagha died on Friday night at about 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, following a prolonged illness. His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the sad news to newsmen in a telephone conversation.
A cultural icon and musical pioneer, Mike Ejeagha dominated Nigerian airwaves in the 1980s with his distinctive Igbo folk sound.
His lyrics, rich in wisdom, humour, and proverbial storytelling, resonated deeply with audiences and preserved a vital part of Igbo heritage.
Ejeagha’s music transcended generations, earning him the moniker “Gentleman” and a permanent place in the hearts of Nigerians.
One of his masterpieces, Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo, became a sensation recently after popular comedian, Brain Jotter, used it in one of his skits that went viral
Ejiagha’s contributions remain preserved in the National Archives, a testament to his legacy as one of the country’s most revered folklorists.