Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” Singer, Mike Ejeagha, Dies at 95

By Chukwudi Ifeoma Thelma

Popular Nigerian highlife musician and folklorist, also known as Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, has passed on at the age of 95.

He died on Friday June 6, 2025, around 8pm at 32 Garrison Hospital, Enugu State. His death was announced by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, who told reporters that his dad died after a long battle with prostate cancer.

Ejeagha was born on April 4th, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, and rose to fame in the mid-20th century with notable tracks like “Omekagu,” “Uwa Mgbede Kaa Mma,” and “Ka Esi Lee Onye Isi Oche.”

He founded his band, “Mike Ejeagha and Merry Makers,” in 1950, which significantly contributed to promoting Igbo culture, and has over 300 recordings.

Mike Ejeagha’s music recently got a major boost, especially among younger fans, over viral dance challenge that took over social media in 2024 created by popular comedian “Brainjotter” featuring his 1983 song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche” (“Gwo gwo gwo ngwo”).

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has paid tribute to Mike Ejeagha’s family over the huge loss.
His death has left a big mark on the world of highlife music, but his legacy and impact live on and remain undeniable .