Mike Ejeagha, a revered figure in Nigerian highlife music, died on Friday evening following a lengthy 16-year struggle with prostate cancer.
His first son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the development during a telephone conversation with Sunday Vanguard.
The veteran musician passed away at the age of 95 at the Military Hospital in Enugu.
Emma disclosed that his father was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and had endured multiple hospitalizations over the years.
READ ALSO: ‘Gwo Gwo Gwo’ highlife music maestro Mike Ejeagha dies at 95
His condition deteriorated significantly two weeks ago, prompting his admission to the hospital. Though he showed signs of recovery and was briefly discharged, his health took another downturn last Tuesday, leading to a final emergency admission.
Sadly, he succumbed to the illness.Emma, who was present during his father’s final hours, described him as a man of peace and exceptional intellect.
“Papa died at exactly 8 pm on Friday, and his corpse has been deposited in the morgue. I was with him during his final moments. I will meet with my family in the morning to break the news to them,” he said.
Before his passing, Ejeagha had given clear instructions to his son, requesting that his body not be embalmed or kept in a mortuary for an extended period.
Mike Odiong, the Chief Executive Officer of Premier Records Limited—Ejeagha’s former record label—also confirmed the icon’s death. He offered a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging the impact of Ejeagha’s music and his commitment to humanity.
“His songs were not just songs, but body of works that had strong messages to educate and encourage mankind. We will miss him. Even as he is no more with us, his works will continue to live and go beyond bounds.
“The family, friends, and fans of Mike Ejeagha will remember him not only for his rich baritone and infectious rhythms but for the depth, dignity, and devotion he brought to preserving Igbo culture through song,” he said.
Known for his distinctive blend of storytelling and melody, Ejeagha was a cultural ambassador whose musical contributions shaped the identity of Igbo highlife music for more than sixty years.
His influence peaked during the 1980s, when his songs became staples across southeastern Nigeria.
In 2023, the veteran musician experienced a resurgence in popularity after a song from his archive, “Gwo Gwo Ngwo”, originally released in 1983, was featured in a viral comedy skit by Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie, popularly known as Brain Jotter.
The skit sparked a global dance challenge that brought renewed attention to Ejeagha’s music and legacy.
The unexpected resurgence not only reconnected younger audiences with his timeless works but also brought long-overdue recognition to the highlife maestro.
Visitors began flocking to his Enugu home to pay their respects, and he began receiving royalties that had previously bypassed him. In a symbolic gesture of honor, a street in Enugu was named after him.
Mike Ejeagha’s contribution to music and culture remains indelible. Over the course of six decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and soul of Igbo highlife. His family, particularly his son Emma, has vowed to keep his legacy alive and ensure his musical heritage endures.
