President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and some state governors have mourned the late veteran musician, Mike Ejeagha, who passed away at the age of 95.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, the late Igbo cultural icon died around 8 pm on Friday after a prolonged illness.
His musical journey began in the 1960s, and he became a household name in the 1980s with classics like Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwo gwo gwo ngwo).
His over 50-year music career experienced a resurgence in 2024, when comedian and content creator, Brain Jotter, used his 1983 track, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” in a viral dance video.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, Tinubu said the late Ejeagha used his music and distinctive storytelling style to preserve and project Igbo culture and customs, inspiring generations.
“May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation,” the President said.
Atiku, in a tribute shared on his official social media handle, praised Jotter for his timely support, which brought the veteran musician back into the spotlight before his demise.
“It is heartwarming to note that thanks to Brain Jotter, highlife maestro, Mike Ejeagha ,had his ‘Gwo gwo gwo ngwo’ encore dance before the curtain was drawn. Rest in music, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” Atiku wrote.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State also mourned the departed music maestro, saying his exit had created a void that would be too difficult to fill.
In a post shared on his X handle on Saturday, Mbah described Ejeagha as an unassuming and easygoing personality, whose fanbase spread beyond international boundaries.
“I’m profoundly saddened by the death of music icon, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha. Ejeagha was a legend, a cultural ambassador, and a revered son of Enugu State.
“He was one of the finest musicians of his generation with an easygoing personality and humility that belied his towering celebrity status.
“I will always cherish fond memories of the time spent in his company – the warmth and wisdom he radiated; the joy he found in the ordinary,” the governor wrote.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, also mourned the passing of Nigeria’s highlife legend.
The minister, in a statement issued on Saturday, extended condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Mike Ejeagha, praying that his soul rest in peace.
Musawa described the late icon as a legend whose contributions to Nigeria’s culture through music and folklore cannot be set aside.
“The nation has lost a treasure trove of cultural heritage and musical genius. Mike Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
“Mike Ejeagha’s impact on Igbo culture and music is undeniable. His extensive discography, comprising over 300 recordings archived in the National Archives of Nigeria, is a testament to his dedication to preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage.
“As we mourn the passing of this musical icon, we celebrate his life and legacy. May his music continue to inspire and educate future generations of Nigerians,” the minister said.
