Tributes Flow as Tinubu, Atiku, Obi, Others Mourn Legendary Mike Ejeagha
Nigeria’s cultural and political spheres were united in mourning on Thursday following the death of highlife icon and folklorist Mike Ejeagha, who passed away at the age of 95 in Enugu after a prolonged illness.
The music legend, known for his rich storytelling and profound use of Igbo proverbs in music, left behind a legacy that transcends generations and borders.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led national tributes, describing Ejeagha as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language.”
In a statement from the presidency, Tinubu praised Ejeagha’s ability to use music not just for entertainment, but as a tool for education, reflection, and cultural preservation. “May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal, and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation,” he said.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid homage to the legendary musician. Sharing his tribute on social media, Atiku reflected on the recent viral resurgence of Ejeagha’s 1983 classic Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche, which regained popularity after being featured in a skit by comedian Brain Jotter.
“His songs weren’t just melodies—they were moral compasses,” Atiku said. “Rest in music, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha.”
Labour Party leader and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi described the musician’s death as “the end of an era, but not the end of his voice.” Obi noted that Ejeagha’s songs will continue to echo through generations, preserving truth, wisdom, and Igbo cultural values.
“He was a master of using music to teach, to heal, and to preserve the moral and philosophical wealth of our people,” he said.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, in his statement, hailed Ejeagha as “a legend, a cultural ambassador, and a revered son of Enugu State,” adding that the musician’s contributions left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
“He carried the spirit of our ancestors in his voice,” Mbah stated.
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy noted that Ejeagha’s legacy included over 300 folk music recordings archived at the National Archives in Enugu.
“He was not only a performer, but also a preserver of our oral traditions,” the ministry said in a statement.
Mike Ejeagha’s music experienced an unexpected renaissance earlier this year after Brain Jotter’s skit sparked a social media challenge that brought one of his old tracks back into the spotlight. The song, originally released in 1983, went viral, garnering over 28 million views across TikTok and Instagram. It soon found its way onto major music charts, including Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Nigeria’s Top 100.
Reacting to Ejeagha’s death, Brain Jotter shared a tribute on Instagram, writing: “39 years ago, he made magic. 39 years later, we danced to it again. Now, he rests—but his melody lives forever. Rest in peace, legend.”
Known affectionately as “Gentleman Mike,” Ejeagha was celebrated for his philosophical approach to music and his calm demeanor.
Through works like Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, Akuko Na Egwu, and Okokporo, he explored themes of morality, community, and human behavior with poetic precision. Ejeagha often described music as a classroom, once saying, “I sing to make people think, not just dance.”
He was born in 1930 in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, and rose to prominence in the mid-20th century.
His music became a staple in Eastern Nigeria and beyond, earning him respect as a cultural icon and musical historian.
Ejeagha reportedly died at his home in Enugu, surrounded by family. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a legacy that has left an indelible imprint on Nigerian music and heritage.
As the nation mourns, tributes continue to pour in from across the world, affirming that while Mike Ejeagha may have left the stage, the applause has only just begun.
