Legendary highlife and folklore musician, Mike Ejeagha, has been laid to rest in his hometown of Umuagba, Imezi-Owa, in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The revered 95-year-old artist, whose influence in Igbo traditional music spanned decades, passed away on Friday evening at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after battling a long-term illness, as confirmed by his son, Emma Ejeagha.
Ejeagha, born April 4, 1930, was known for his deep storytelling through music, with iconic tracks like “Omekagu“, “Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma”, and “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”.
His songs, rooted in Igbo culture and values, carried lessons that resonated across generations. Over 300 of his works are preserved in the National Archives of Nigeria.
In recent times, his 1983 track “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche” experienced a revival on social media through a viral dance challenge, introducing his legacy to younger audiences.
His passing stirred widespread reactions, including a heartfelt tribute from Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, who described the music icon as a legend whose presence left a cultural footprint difficult to replace.
“Mike Ejeagha was a legend, a cultural ambassador, and one of the finest musicians of his generation,” the governor said, adding that the late singer’s humility and impact reached far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Governor Mbah had honoured Ejeagha during his lifetime by reconstructing and renaming the Obinagu Road—now known as Chief Mike Ejeagha Road—leading to his Abakpa Nike residence, a gesture long awaited by the late folklorist.
He assured the public that the state government would take further steps to immortalise the music legend.
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Veteran highlife and folklore music legend, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, has been laid to rest in his country home of Umuagba, Imezi-Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State🕊️ https://t.co/QDuRT5FO9n pic.twitter.com/8tOIo7YQ6D
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) June 8, 2025
