- He was a guardian of Igbo oral tradition — Atiku
The government of Enugu State on Saturday announced plans to immortalise the ‘Gwo gwo gwo ngwo’ belter and legendary Nigerian music icon, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, while expressing sadness over his death.
The revered folklorist and cultural ambassador passed away on Friday, leaving behind a monumental legacy in the nation’s music history.
In a post on his verified X platform on Saturday, Mbah highlighted Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian culture and his ability to transform simple indigenous folktales into universally resonant songs.
“Mike 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 a humility that belied his towering celebrity status.
“His fan-base transcended boundaries, and he was easily one of the most recognisable voices in music”, Mbah said.
The governor further acknowledged Ejeagha’s unique artistic genius, saying “Ejeagha’s immense talent and genius lay in how he took simple indigenous folktales and turned them into unforgettable songs that resonate across cultures.”
Mbah also lamented the significant void left by his passing, describing it as a loss not only for his immediate family but also for Enugu State, the entire music community, and the nation as a whole.
“His death leaves a huge void that will be difficult to fill. But the legacies he has left behind will last a lifetime,” Mbah emphasised in his post.
On behalf of the Enugu State Government, Mbah extended heartfelt condolences to the Ejeagha family, assuring them of unwavering support during this difficult time.
The governor also pledged that the state government would ensure that the memory of the music legend is “duly immortalised.”
The post concluded with a prayer for the family, “Above all, I pray that his family experiences the comforting grace of God’s love, and the fortitude to bear the loss. Rest in peace, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha.”
Mike Ejeagha was celebrated for a career spanning decades, during which he championed Igbo folklore and proverbs through his captivating highlife music.
His distinctive storytelling through song earned him a cherished place in the hearts of millions and a significant position in Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
Also, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar mourned the passing of the highlife icon, describing him as a “storyteller, teacher, and guardian of Igbo oral tradition.”
Ejeagha, aged 95, died on Friday evening at around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after a prolonged illness.
His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the news to journalists on Saturday.
In a heartfelt tribute shared via his official social media handles, Atiku wrote, ”Gentleman Mike Ejeagha was more than a musician; he was a storyteller, a teacher, and a guardian of Igbo oral tradition.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Popularly called “Gentleman” for his calm demeanour and lyrical grace, Ejeagha was recently brought back into the public eye through a heartfelt visit by comedian and skit maker, Brain Jotter.
The entertainer’s engagement with the ageing legend helped rekindle public appreciation for his work.
Atiku’s tribute partly read, ”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,” referencing his signature sound and the emotional wave of support that followed the viral visit.
Ejeagha celebrated for his folkloric lyrics, proverbs, and didactic storytelling style, is a towering figure in Nigerian music.
His influence spanned generations, with many of his songs serving as cultural touchstones in Igbo-speaking communities and beyond.
Ejeagha’s musical career, which spanned over six decades, produced a rich catalog of songs known for their deep wisdom, philosophical tone, and traditional instrumentation.
