Veteran highlife musician and renowned folklorist, Mike Ejeagha, widely celebrated as the creative force behind the popular ‘Gwo Gwo Ngwo’ dance challenge, has passed away at the age of 95.
Sources reveal that Ejeagha died peacefully on Friday night at around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital located in Enugu, following a prolonged battle with illness.
Mike Ejeagha.
The sad news of his passing was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, who conveyed the family’s deep sorrow and asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Mike Ejeagha was revered for his masterful ability to intertwine Igbo folklore, proverbs, and traditional narratives into captivating musical stories that educated and entertained audiences across multiple generations.
His unique style of musical storytelling not only enriched Nigerian cultural heritage but also left an indelible mark on the country’s radio broadcasting scene throughout the 1980s, where his songs were widely played and cherished.
Notably, his 2024 hit song was creatively reinvented as the viral dance challenge “Gwo Gwo Gwo” by the popular skit maker, Brain Jotter, bringing renewed attention and appreciation to his artistic legacy among younger audiences.
Mike Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music and culture have cemented his status as a living legend whose influence will continue to inspire future generations.