Veteran Nigerian highlife musician Mike Ejeagha, known for his iconic song “Gwo Gwo Gwo,” has passed away at 95. M
He died on Friday night around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after battling prostate cancer for 16 years and a prolonged illness.
Ejeagha was celebrated for blending Igbo folklore and proverbs into timeless music, dominating Nigerian airwaves in the 1980s. His unique style resonated across generations, earning him a revered place in Nigeria’s cultural history.
His son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the news, stating that his father was a peace-loving man and a genius. Mike Ejeagha’s legacy extends beyond entertainment, representing a bridge between traditional African storytelling and contemporary musical expression.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
Who is Mike Ejeagha?
Mike Ejeagha, fondly known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” was a renowned Nigerian folklorist, songwriter, and musician from Enugu State. Born on April 4, 1930, he passed away on June 6, 2025, at the age of 95. With a career spanning over six decades, Ejeagha significantly influenced Igbo music, blending folklore and proverbs into captivating songs.
Some of his notable achievements include:
Early Life and Career
Ejeagha started his music career in the mid-20th century, joining Joseph Ogbu’s band as a guitarist in 1950. He later formed his own band, “Mike Ejeagha and the Merrymakers.”
Breakthrough and Recognition
He gained widespread fame hosting an Igbo program called “Akuko N Egwu” on Nigerian Television Authority in 1972. The show featured folksongs composed by Ejeagha and his group.
Notable Songs
Some of his hit songs include:
- Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (also known as “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo”), released in 1983, which became a viral sensation in 2024 after comedian Brain Jotter featured it in a dance challenge.
- Uwa Ngbede Ka Mma
- Enyi Ga Achi
- Elulube Lube
Legacy
Ejeagha contributed over 300 recordings to the National Archives of Nigeria, documenting Igbo folklore and highlife music. He was awarded a certificate of merit from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Awards and Honors
The Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, visited Ejeagha at his residence and renamed the Abakpa Road after him in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian music.