Obi Mourns Highlife Legend Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s Death

Peter Obi, the former Anambra State Governor, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of iconic highlife musician, folklorist, and cultural custodian Pa Mike Ejeagha, popularly known as Gentleman Mike Ejeagha.

Obi described Ejeagha’s death as the end of a significant era in Nigerian music and cultural storytelling.

“His transition marks the end of an era, but not the end of his voice – his songs will continue to echo through generations as testaments to wisdom, culture, and truth,” Obi said.

For more than six decades, Pa Ejeagha used music not just as entertainment, but as a vehicle for education, moral reflection, and the preservation of Igbo heritage. His lyrics, rich with proverbs, parables, and life lessons, served as a guide for generations, blending humour, spirituality, and discipline into memorable compositions.

“Through his work, he immortalised the essence of life,” Obi said, noting how Ejeagha’s storytelling style made him both a musician and a moral philosopher.

Obi also pointed to the recent resurgence of Ejeagha’s music, particularly the viral popularity of Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo), brought back to public consciousness by content creator Brain Jotter. “It shows that true art never dies. Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s voice remains relevant, even decades after,” he said.

He extended his condolences to Ejeagha’s family, the people of Enugu State, and Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, urging them to take pride in the legacy of one of their finest sons.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy never fade,” Obi concluded.