President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Nigeria’s legendary folklorist and highlife musician, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, who passed away on Friday, 7 June 2025, at the age of 95.
The late Ejeagha, celebrated for his profound contributions to Igbo music and oral tradition, reportedly died at his residence in the Abakpa Nike area of Enugu after a prolonged illness.
Until his death, he was revered as one of Nigeria’s most influential indigenous storytellers and songwriters, with a musical career spanning over six decades.
The President, in a statement issued by the State House on Saturday, 8 June, expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and admirers of the late icon, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language.”
“President Bola Tinubu extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and many fans of Mike Ejeagha… who passed on to eternity on Friday at 95,” the statement read.
President Tinubu acknowledged Ejeagha’s role in preserving Igbo culture and oral tradition through his distinctive musical storytelling.
The President further remarked, “May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal, and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation.”
In recent years, the revered artiste had faded from public view due to ill health and age. However, his legacy was dramatically revived in July 2024 when popular comedian and content creator, Brain Jotter (Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie), spotlighted Ejeagha’s 1983 classic, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”, in a viral skit and dance challenge.
The clip, featuring the chant “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” quickly went viral across social media platforms and breathed new life into a track dormant for over four decades.
Following its success, Brain Jotter traced Ejeagha to his Enugu home. In an emotional meeting captured on video, Ejeagha was seen in tears, touched by the resurgence of his music.
Brain Jotter not only gave public credit to the legend but also donated ₦2 million to support him, stating, “All revenue generated from his music goes back to him, his record label, and his production company.”
The artist’s son expressed deep appreciation: “Over thirty‑something years that music was recorded, but as God might have it, that you, Brian Jotter, will be the one to make this song go viral … God bless you.”
President Tinubu, in his condolence message, prayed for the repose of the musician’s soul. “President Tinubu prays to God Almighty to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest and comfort to all who mourn his loss,” the statement concluded.
Burial arrangements are yet to be officially announced by the family.
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