Renowned Nigerian folklore musician, Mike Ejeagha, has passed away at the age of 95.
Ejeagha, affectionately known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” who sang “Gwogwogwongwo” died on Friday evening at approximately 8pm at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu State after a prolonged illness.
His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha has confirmed the passing of his father and asked Nigerians to pray for the family at this trying time.
He said that his burial would be announced in later date that will be communicated to the public and his fans.
Ejeagha was a formidable presence on Nigerian airwaves during the 1980s, with his distinctive style of Igbo folk music resonating across multiple generations.
He was lauded for his extraordinary talent in intertwining Igbo folklore and proverbs into mesmerising highlife melodies, securing him a revered position in Nigeria’s cultural and musical heritage.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Ejeagha embarked on his musical odyssey in the mid-20th century.
He rose to prominence during the 1960s and 1980s with timeless hits such as Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwogwogwongwo).
His contributions to the preservation and promotion of Igbo culture through music were monumental, with over 300 recordings meticulously archived in the National Archives of Nigeria.
In recent years, Ejeagha experienced a renaissance in popularity when his 1983 track Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche ignited a viral dance challenge across social media platforms in 2024.
This resurgence introduced his music to a younger audience, reaffirming his stature as a cultural icon.
Ejeagha’s passing signifies the conclusion of an era for Nigerian highlife music. Nonetheless, his legacy endures through his extensive discography and the indelible mark he left on the preservation of Igbo folklore and music.
His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the passing of the illustrious Gwogwogwongwo songsmith, attributing his demise to a long-standing ailment.
