Veteran Nigerian highlife musician, Sir Mike Ejeagha, has passed on at the age of 95, marking the end of a golden era in African folkloric music. Widely known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” the legendary artist died on Friday evening, June 6, 2025.
His son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the sad news to journalists in Enugu, stating that the music icon passed away around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital after battling a prolonged illness. “My father passed away due to a long-standing ailment,” Emma said.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha’s career spanned over five decades. His music, rooted deeply in Igbo tradition, was not only entertaining but also educational. Tracks like Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche became anthems across Nigeria, earning him admiration across generations.
Mike Ejeagha was more than a musician; he was a custodian of Igbo culture. His lyrical storytelling and mastery of proverbs made his music a cultural treasure. With over 300 recordings preserved in the National Archives of Nigeria, his contributions to Nigerian music remain unmatched.
In 2024, the legend experienced a resurgence in popularity when a viral dance challenge featuring his 1983 hit Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche brought his sound to a new generation. The internet embraced his vintage rhythms, reigniting nationwide appreciation for his artistry.
Ejeagha’s death is a profound loss to the Nigerian music scene, but his spirit lives on through the timeless melodies and cultural wisdom he left behind.
