Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has paid tribute to the late Mike Ejeagha, a revered highlife musician, hailing him as a storyteller, teacher, and guardian of Igbo oral heritage.
Ejeagha, affectionately known as “Gentleman” for his calm presence and lyrical finesse, passed away on Friday evening at the age of 95 following a lengthy illness. He died at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, as confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha.
In a message shared on his official social media platforms, Atiku expressed deep admiration for the late music legend, highlighting the enduring cultural value of his work.
“Gentleman Mike Ejeagha was more than a musician,” he wrote. “He was a storyteller, a teacher, and a guardian of Igbo oral tradition. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Ejeagha, whose music is characterised by the use of Igbo proverbs, moral lessons, and traditional instrumentation, recently re-entered public consciousness following a widely celebrated visit by comedian and skit creator Brain Jotter.
The entertainer’s emotional reunion with the ageing musician sparked renewed appreciation for Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music and culture.
Reflecting on that moment, Atiku added, ”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 the distinctive sound and memorable phrase that defined much of Ejeagha’s work.
Spanning more than 60 years, Ejeagha’s musical journey left an indelible mark across generations. His songs, imbued with philosophical depth and rooted in Igbo tradition, have long served as cultural touchstones within and beyond southeastern Nigeria. His legacy as a master of folkloric storytelling through music continues to resonate across the country.
