Mike Ejeagha, a well-known name in highlife music, has died at the age of 95.
The veteran musician passed away late Friday evening around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, after battling a long illness. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha.
Mike Ejeagha was born on April 4, 1930. He began his music career in the middle of the 20th century and went on to shape the development of Igbo-language music for more than 60 years.
His work stood out because he often used traditional proverbs in his songs, which connected deeply with his audience and kept cultural stories alive through music.
In 1972, Ejeagha became well known across Nigeria when the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) invited him to be a guest presenter on the Igbo program called ‘Akuko N Egwu.’
This opportunity helped bring his music and storytelling to a wider audience, further cementing his influence in Nigerian music history.
Throughout his life, Mike Ejeagha was respected not only as a musician but also as a keeper of culture and tradition. His songs are remembered for their rich messages and the way they preserved Igbo language and wisdom for younger generations.
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, who will carry on his legacy. Many fans and fellow musicians have already expressed their sadness over his passing, noting the impact he had on highlife music and Nigerian culture as a whole.
