IMEZI-OWA, Nigeria (FN) — Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi joined artists, content creators, and government officials on Friday to pay tribute to legendary highlife musician Dr. Mike Ejeagha, whose burial was held in Imezi-Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Obi, who traveled from Lagos to attend the ceremony, described Ejeagha as a cultural icon whose music and storytelling “deeply influenced society through his outstanding contributions to culture and music.” In a post on his official X account, Obi said he joined family members and clergy in prayer at the graveside, commending Ejeagha’s soul to the Almighty.
“May his passing remind us of the beauty of a life dedicated to service, culture, and truth,” Obi wrote. “May his memory inspire us to use our own gifts for the good of society, and to live in a manner worthy of remembrance.”
President Bola Tinubu, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, all issued statements mourning Ejeagha’s passing. The Enugu State Government, in particular, pledged to immortalize the late musician.
“On behalf of the Enugu State Government, Governor Peter Mbah: “We are renaming Obinagu Road to Chief Mike Ejeagha Road in honor of his cultural legacy. He was a treasure to Enugu and Nigeria.”I offer heartfelt condolences to the Ejeagha family and assure them of our support.
Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, described Ejeagha as “a national treasure whose work deserves to be studied, archived, and celebrated.”
Enugu State Commissioner for Culture: “We will establish a cultural center in his name to preserve his music and teachings.”
The burial drew heartfelt tributes from across Nigeria’s creative landscape. Popular comedian Brain Jotter, who helped revive Ejeagha’s music through a viral skit featuring the 1983 classic “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” shared a video of the late musician on Instagram. “Thirty-nine years ago, he made magic. Thirty-nine years later, we danced to it again. Now, he rests — but his melody lives forever,” he wrote
Ejeagha, known for his lyrical mastery and preservation of Igbo folklore, was celebrated for songs that blended proverbs, moral lessons, and traditional rhythms. His work earned him a revered place in Nigeria’s musical history.
Artists across the country paid tribute to Ejeagha’s legacy. Highlife musician Flavour N’abania called him “a pillar of Igbo musical heritage,” while producer Masterkraft said Ejeagha’s melodies “shaped the rhythm of our roots.” Content creator Nedu Wazobia described his music as “a classroom for the streets.”
Untouchable Comedies, viral comedy group: “Meeting him was a blessing. His humility and humor were unmatched. We’ll keep his legacy alive through laughter and music.”
Masterkraft, music producer: “Before the beats got louder, there was Ejeagha. His melodies shaped the rhythm of our roots.”
Nedu Wazobia, content creator:“Ejeagha’s music was a classroom for the streets. He taught through proverbs and rhythm.”
Adaeze Nwokoye, university student and fan: “I grew up listening to his songs with my grandmother. His music made me proud to be Igbo.”
Chinedu Okafor, local radio host: “Ejeagha’s voice was the soundtrack of our childhood. His passing is the end of an era, but his wisdom lives on.”
The burial ceremony was marked by simplicity and reverence, in accordance with Ejeagha’s wishes. Live performances of his classic songs, including “Gwo Gwo Gwom,” were featured as mourners reflected on his life and impact.
Ejeagha’s passing has reignited conversations about preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and ensuring that the voices of its musical pioneers continue to inspire future generations.
