Mike Ejeagha, the legendary highlife musician known for his iconic hit “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” has passed away at the age of 95 after a prolonged 16-year battle with prostate cancer. The news was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha.
Ejeagha, affectionately known as “Gentleman” Mike Ejeagha, died on Friday night at 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu. According to Emma, his father was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and had been hospitalized multiple times over the years. His health deteriorated two weeks ago, leading to another hospitalization. Although he was initially stabilized and discharged, he was rushed back to the hospital last Tuesday and sadly did not survive.
Emma, who was present during his father’s final moments, described him as a peace-loving man and a genius. “Papa died at exactly 8 p.m. on Friday, and his body has been deposited in the morgue. I was with him during his final moments. I will meet with my family in the morning to break the news to them,” Emma said.
Before his death, Ejeagha had instructed his son not to embalm his body or keep it in the morgue for too long.
Mike Ejeagha was a renowned folklorist, songwriter, and musician, and a towering figure in Nigerian music, especially during the 1980s. His unique brand of Igbo folk music resonated across generations. In 2024, his 1983 classic song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche” gained renewed attention after it was featured in a viral dance skit by comedian Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie, popularly known as Brain Jotter. The skit sparked a global dance challenge, reigniting interest in Ejeagha’s music.
The resurgence not only rekindled public appreciation for the folk legend but also led to a revival of his career. Many fans and admirers visited him at his Enugu residence to pay homage. During this period, Ejeagha began receiving long-overdue royalties, and a road in Enugu was renamed in his honor as a tribute to his enduring legacy.
Mike Ejeagha will be remembered as a foundational figure in the evolution of Igbo highlife music for over six decades. His legacy lives on, with his son committed to preserving his rich musical heritage.
