Legendary Igbo Musician Mike Ejeagha Dies at 95

Born: April 4, 1930 – Died: June 6, 2025

Nigerian highlife and folk music legend Mike Ejeagha has passed away. He died on Thursday, June 6, 2025, in Enugu, at the age of 95. After battling health issues for some years, the music icon finally took his last breath, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

This is a sad moment for many Nigerians, especially the Igbo people, who grew up listening to his music and learning from his wise words.

Early Life and Love for Music

Mike Ejeagha was born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. He grew up in Coal Camp, Enugu, where he was surrounded by traditional Igbo stories, proverbs, and village folk tales. As a young boy, he was deeply touched by the wisdom in those stories. They became a big part of who he was. These experiences helped shape his music and inspired him to sing songs that taught life lessons.

His Music Journey

Ejeagha began his music journey in the late 1940s. He joined a group called Coal City Boys in 1945. Later, he formed his own band called The Merry Makers. He also worked as a radio presenter in Nigeria’s early broadcasting days.

He was known for singing in the Igbo language and telling stories in his songs. These songs were not just entertaining, they also taught people about respect, unity, hard work, and life lessons. This is why people called him a musical storyteller or teacher.

Some of his most popular songs include:

Omekagu

Uwa Mgbede

Akuko N’egwu

Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo

His music was always filled with Igbo proverbs, deep meaning, and traditional wisdom.

Keeping Igbo Culture Alive

Mike Ejeagha’s music helped to preserve the Igbo language and culture. At a time when many young people were forgetting their roots, his music reminded them of who they are. He recorded over 300 songs and folktales, which are now kept in Nigeria’s National Archives for future generations.

He once said:

“A song without a lesson is like food without salt.”

This simple quote shows how he believed music should not just sound good but should teach something important.

His Influence on Others

Mike Ejeagha inspired many other musicians. He showed that it was okay to sing in your local language and be proud of it. Many Igbo gospel and highlife musicians today say his songs helped shape their music. His influence spread beyond Igbo land. Many Nigerians saw him as a wise man whose voice brought peace and knowledge.

Return to the Spotlight

After staying away from the spotlight for many years, Mike Ejeagha became popular again in 2024. Nigerian comedian Brain Jotter used his old song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” in a viral dance video on social media. This video introduced Ejeagha’s music to young Nigerians and brought him back into the limelight. Surprisingly, one of his old albums from 1982 entered the Spotify Nigeria music chart, a rare feat for a traditional musician of his age.

His Legal Battle

For over 10 years, Mike Ejeagha was in a legal battle with his record label. The contract they gave him took away most of the rights to his songs. But in 2019, a court judgment helped him win back ownership of his music. This was a major victory for him and for all Nigerian artists.

Reactions to His Death

After the news of his death, many people took to social media to share their pain and respect. Fans posted his songs and thanked him for the lessons he shared through music. Some cultural groups are even calling for a public tribute or state burial to honor his work.

Mike Ejeagha may be gone, but his voice, wisdom, and music will live on forever. His songs will continue to teach people about culture, respect, and life. A documentary titled “Gentleman” is also in the works to tell his full story and celebrate his contribution to Nigerian music.

He didn’t just entertain—he taught. He didn’t just sing—he preserved tradition.

Mike Ejeagha will always be remembered as a cultural hero.

🕊️ Rest in Peace, Mike Ejeagha (1930–2025)

A true legend. A storyteller. A voice of tradition.