The Enugu State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, a revered highlife musician and cultural icon, who died on Friday at the age of 95.
In a heartfelt message shared on Saturday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Governor Peter Mbah paid glowing tribute to the late folklorist, praising his artistic genius and enormous contributions to Nigerian music and Igbo culture.
“Mike Ejeagha was a legend, a cultural ambassador, and a revered son of Enugu State,” the governor wrote. “He was one of the finest musicians of his generation — humble, soft-spoken, yet globally admired. His fan base transcended boundaries, and his voice remains one of the most recognisable in Nigerian music.”
Governor Mbah emphasised the enduring impact of Ejeagha’s work, highlighting how the music maestro transformed indigenous folktales and proverbs into timeless songs that resonated across generations and cultures.
“Ejeagha’s immense talent lay in his ability to turn simple Igbo folklore into unforgettable melodies. His storytelling through music helped preserve our cultural heritage and shaped our identity as a people,” the governor said.
Mbah described Ejeagha’s death as a profound loss — not just to his family or Enugu State, but to the entire nation and the African music community. “His passing leaves a huge void that will be difficult to fill. But the legacies he has left behind will last a lifetime,” he noted.
On behalf of the people and government of Enugu State, Governor Mbah extended condolences to the Ejeagha family, assuring them of full support during this difficult time.
He also pledged to immortalise the late musician, stating that the state will take deliberate steps to ensure Ejeagha’s memory and cultural impact are permanently etched into the fabric of Nigerian history.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Mike Ejeagha rose to prominence in the 1960s with his signature blend of highlife and Igbo folklore. His hits such as Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwogwogwongwo) remain classics.
With over 300 recordings archived in the National Archives of Nigeria, Ejeagha’s influence spans decades, recently enjoying a revival in 2024 after his 1983 track Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche went viral on social media.
In his final tribute, Governor Mbah offered prayers for the Ejeagha 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.”
The passing of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha marks the end of an era, but his voice, vision, and values will echo for generations to come.
