Nigeria Mourns Mike Ejeagha, Highlife Legend Behind “Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” at 95

Veteran highlife artiste Mike Ejeagha, also referred to as "Gentleman Mike," passed away in the evening of June 6, 2025, at 95 years old in Enugu following a prolonged struggle with prostate cancer. Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha was a pioneering folklorist whose guitar narrative set the pace for Igbo music development.

His 1983 classic, "Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche," resurfaced last summer when comedian Brain Jotter's "Gwo Gwo Ngwo" viral dance challenge led people to his music again, making Ejeagha the oldest Nigerian artist to ever appear on Apple Music Nigeria and revitalizing his album Akụkọ N'egwu Vol. 1.

Across the country, condolence messages poured in. Former Nigeria Vice President Atiku Abubakar sent warm sympathy and thanked Brain Jotter for honoring Ejeagha's artistry before he passed away. Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa referred to him as a custodian of Igbo oral tradition whose music embalmed proverbs, history and social values. Colleague artists such as Omawumi, Yul Edochie and Chinedu Ikedieze bemoaned his benevolent heart and never-faltering resolve to keep culture alive.

Ejeagha's relatives confirmed that the iconic guitarist died peacefully at 32 Garrison Hospital after decades of poor health. He leaves behind more than 300 recorded tracks stored in archives across his groundbreaking career, which inspired numerous musicians to dig deeper into Igbo folklore roots.

As Nigeria bid farewell to one of her best weavers of tales, his music and teachings will continue to echo through generations.