The family of legendary Nigerian highlife musician, Mike Ejeagha, has confirmed that the music icon died of prostate cancer.
He passed away peacefully on Friday evening, June 6, at the age of 95.
Speaking to Vanguard on Saturday morning, the musician’s eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, said his father died after a long battle with the disease. According to him, the highlife maestro had been living with prostate cancer since 2006.
Emma explained that his father took his last breath at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu. “Papa died on Friday, at 8 p.m. and his body has been deposited in the mortuary. I was with him during his final moments,” he said.
A long battle with cancer
For nearly two decades, Mike Ejeagha quietly endured the effects of prostate cancer. Despite his age and health challenges, he remained strong in spirit. According to his son, the illness gradually worsened in recent years. Emma noted that the family had been managing his health privately for a long time.
“He had been dealing with this condition since 2006. We did our best to support him,” Emma shared. “He fought hard, but in the end, his body gave in.”
Final wish: A simple goodbye
Before his death, Mike Ejeagha made a request to his family: he did not want to be embalmed or kept too long in the mortuary. Emma said his father had always lived a simple life, and he wanted a modest burial.
“He asked us not to embalm his body. He didn’t want to stay too long in the morgue. That was one of his last wishes, and we will respect that,” Emma said.
This request, according to the family, reflects the kind of person Mike Ejeagha was, simple, humble, and deeply connected to tradition.
A musical legacy that lives on
Known for his unique storytelling style and deep Igbo lyrics, Mike Ejeagha left a mark on Nigerian music that spans generations. His songs, filled with proverbs and wisdom, continue to influence artists today.
One of his most famous songs, Gwo gwo ngwo, was first released in 1983. However, it returned to the spotlight in 2024 after popular Nigerian comedian and skit maker, Brain Jotter, featured the track in a viral global dance challenge. The song quickly gained fresh popularity among younger audiences on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
This unexpected comeback introduced Ejeagha’s music to a new generation, many of whom were not familiar with his earlier work.
Tributes pour in for a cultural icon
Since news of his passing broke, tributes have poured in from fans, musicians, and cultural leaders. Many have praised Ejeagha for preserving traditional Igbo music and language through his songs. His deep baritone voice, wise lyrics, and use of folklore set him apart as a true custodian of culture.
“He was more than a musician; he was a teacher,” one fan wrote online. “Through his songs, he taught us values and kept our language alive.”
Music lovers across Nigeria have expressed their sadness over the loss. Yet, they also celebrate the long and meaningful life he lived.
Looking ahead: Plans for burial
While the family has yet to announce a date for the burial, they have promised to release details soon. Emma Ejeagha said the family would honor his father’s legacy with a befitting farewell, one that reflects his contributions to music and culture.
“We will announce plans in the coming days. For now, we are just grateful for the messages of support,” he added.
As Nigeria mourns the loss of a musical legend, one thing is certain: Mike Ejeagha’s songs and stories will live on. His voice may be gone, but his message remains strong, echoing in every note, lyric, and memory.
