Celebrated Nigerian highlife musician and folklorist, Mike Ejeagha, has passed away at the age of 95.
The revered artiste died on Friday evening around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Mr. Emma Ejeagha, who spoke to journalists on Saturday.
Known widely as “Gentleman,” Ejeagha was a towering figure in Nigeria’s music industry, especially in the highlife genre. His songs, deeply rooted in Igbo oral tradition, were famous for their moral lessons, use of proverbs, and traditional storytelling.
Over a career that spanned more than six decades, Ejeagha produced a rich catalogue of music that became cultural reference points in many homes and communities. His unique style and calm demeanour earned him generations of admirers.
His legacy recently enjoyed renewed public interest after comedian and skit maker Brain Jotter visited him at home in what became a viral and emotional moment online.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar describing him as a “storyteller, teacher, and guardian of Igbo oral tradition.”
