Nigeria mourns the loss of a cultural titan, the legendary highlife musician and folklorist, Mike Ejeagha, affectionately known as "Gentleman Mike." He passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness. His death, which occurred around 8 pm, marks the end of an era for Igbo music and oral tradition, leaving a void in the nation's cultural landscape.

Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Mike Ejeagha's illustrious musical journey began in the 1960s. He rose to become a household name by the 1980s, captivating audiences with timeless classics such as "Omekagu," "Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma," and the iconic "Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwo gwo gwo ngwo)." Spanning over six decades, his career was dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Igbo culture through his unique storytelling style and musical compositions, rich with proverbial wisdom and moral instruction. His extensive discography, boasting over 300 recordings, is archived in the National Archives of Nigeria, a testament to his prolific output. In a remarkable turn, his music experienced a significant resurgence in 2024 when comedian and content creator Brain Jotter featured his 1983 track, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” in a viral dance video, introducing his genius to a new generation.

The nation's leadership was prominent in paying tribute to the late icon. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, extended heartfelt condolences to Ejeagha's family, friends, and admirers. President Tinubu hailed Ejeagha as "one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language," emphasizing his towering influence on Nigerian music and cultural heritage. He noted Ejeagha's distinctive storytelling through music as a cultural treasure and his role in preserving and promoting Igbo traditions 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 that help build our nation,” President Tinubu stated. He also commended the Enugu State Government, under Governor Peter Mbah, for honouring the late icon during his lifetime.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined in mourning the maestro, sharing a tribute on his official social media handle. Atiku specifically praised Brain Jotter for his timely support, which brought the veteran musician back into the spotlight before his demise. “It is heartwarming to note that thanks to Brain Jotter, highlife maestro, Mike Ejeagha, had his ‘Gwo gwo gwo ngwo’ encore dance before the curtain was drawn. Rest in music, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” Atiku wrote.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, expressed profound sadness over the passing of the music impresario. In his condolence message, Kalu described Ejeagha as a national treasure. "Gentle Mike as he was fondly called, was more than an entertainer; he was a storyteller, a custodian of our heritage, and a figure whose voice carried the soul of our people," Kalu remarked. "With creativity and warmth, he transformed indigenous folktales into timeless melodies that transcended generations and borders. His loss is a monumental one, not just for Ndi Igbo but the entire nation. His legacy in the Nigerian music scene and love for our culture will surely be remembered by generations to come." Kalu extended his deepest condolences to the Ejeagha family, praying for strength and comfort for them.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, also mourned the passing of Nigeria’s highlife legend. In a statement, she described the late icon as a legend whose contributions to Nigeria’s culture through music and folklore are indelible. “The nation has lost a treasure trove of cultural heritage and musical genius. Mike Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come," Musawa stated. "Mike Ejeagha’s impact on Igbo culture and music is undeniable. As we mourn the passing of this musical icon, we celebrate his life and legacy. May his music continue to inspire and educate future generations of Nigerians.”

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Ejeagha's home state, expressed deep grief over the death of the music icon, stating that his exit had created a void that would be difficult to fill. In a post shared on his X handle, Governor Mbah described Ejeagha as an unassuming and easygoing personality whose fanbase spread beyond international boundaries. “I’m profoundly saddened by the death of music icon, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha. Ejeagha was a legend, a cultural ambassador, and a revered son of Enugu State,” Mbah wrote. “He was one of the finest musicians of his generation with an easygoing personality and humility that belied his towering celebrity status. I will always cherish fond memories of the time spent in his company – the warmth and wisdom he radiated; the joy he found in the ordinary.”

Mike Ejeagha's passing on Friday evening sent ripples across the nation as the news filtered into the public space. His musical legacy, characterized by his unique blend of highlife rhythms and Igbo folklore, has left an enduring mark. He was not just a musician but a cultural custodian, a storyteller who used his art to educate, entertain, and preserve the rich heritage of his people. As Nigeria mourns Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, his music and the values he espoused will continue to resonate, reminding the nation of the profound power of art to unite, heal, and inspire. His soul is wished peaceful repose.