Highlife Legend and “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” Crooner, Mike Ejeagha, Dies at 95

Mike Ejeagha, veteran Nigerian Highlife musician, has died at the age of 95.

Also known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha”, the revered artist passed away on Friday evening at approximately 8 pm at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, following a prolonged illness.

His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the news to journalists in Enugu on Saturday.

“My father passed away due to a long-standing ailment,” he said.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha became a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene from the 1960s through the 1980s.

He was celebrated for his unique blend of storytelling and traditional Igbo folk music, producing classics such as “Omekagu”, “Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma”, and “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwogwogwongwo)”.

Ejeagha’s work significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of Igbo language and culture. More than 300 of his recordings are archived at the National Archives of Nigeria, cementing his place in the country’s musical history.

The ‘Gwo gwo ngwo’ dance challenge

In 2024, Ejeagha’s music gained renewed attention after a viral dance challenge featuring his 1983 track “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche” introduced his work to a new generation of fans.

Nigerian comedian, Chukwuebuka Emmanuel, popularly known as Brain Jotter, played a key role in reviving interest in Mike Ejeagha’s music through a viral video featuring the late musician’s 1983 track “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo”.

The video, which sparked a dance trend, became Brain Jotter’s most viewed post on Instagram, significantly boosting his social media engagement.

The renewed attention also led to a surge in streams and recognition of Ejeagha’s work, introducing his music to a younger audience.

Ejeagha’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian highlife music, but his influence endures through his rich body of work and cultural impact.