By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Tributes continue to pour in for veteran Nigerian highlife musician and folklorist, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, who passed away on Friday, June 6, at the age of 95. His eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed the death, stating that the revered artist died around 8 p.m. after a prolonged illness.
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Ejeagha as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language.” The President praised his legacy of cultural preservation through music, calling his storytelling “a source of inspiration across generations.”
“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,” Tinubu said.
Former Anambra Governor and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi mourned the loss, describing Ejeagha as a “cultural custodian.” He celebrated the musician’s use of proverbs and folk wisdom as “moral compasses” and noted that “his songs will continue to echo through generations.”
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah called Ejeagha a “legend” and “cultural ambassador,” promising that the state would immortalise his memory. “His fan base transcended boundaries,” Mbah said, pledging government support to the Ejeagha family.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid tribute, noting the revival of Ejeagha’s music through a viral video by comedian Brain Jotter. “Thanks to Brain Jotter, Ejeagha had his encore before the curtain was drawn,” Atiku wrote.
Brain Jotter, in his tribute, wrote: “39 years ago, he made magic. 39 years later, we dance to it again. Now he rests, but his melody lives forever.”
Ejeagha’s legacy as a musical educator, storyteller, and cultural icon remains indelible.
