Veteran Nigerian highlife legend and revered cultural custodian, “Gentleman” Mike Ejeagha—the voice behind the viral “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” refrain—has passed away at 95. He died on Friday, 6 June 2025, in Enugu after a prolonged illness .
A Folk Tale through Song
Born on 4 April 1930 in Imezi‑Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha was a folklorist, guitarist, and one of the foremost figures in Igbo highlife music. Among his many songs, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”, released in 1983, includes the catchy chorus “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo”—which later inspired a global dance challenge .
Viral Renaissance: The “Gwo Gwo” Challenge
In July 2024, comedian Brain Jotter featured the song’s chorus in a humorous dance skit that unexpectedly went viral. The challenge gained millions of views on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, attracting celebrities and everyday users alike . By late July, the song had even become the 14th most Shazam-searched track globally, reintroducing Ejeagha to a new generation .
Tribute & Legacy
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu expressed deep sorrow, calling Ejeagha a “cultural ambassador” and promising to immortalise his memory. The Enugu government had previously renamed streets in his honour and pledged continued recognition .
President Bola Tinubu, as well as former leaders Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, hailed him as a national treasure whose music carried profound moral and cultural lessons .
Brain Jotter, who revived the viral trend, said Ejeagha’s melody “lives forever,” adding that the song’s resurfacing was a ‘rest encore’ for the legend .
Remembering the Legend
Mike Ejeagha’s contributions extend far beyond that single viral moment. Over a music career spanning six decades, he recorded more than 300 folk and highlife tracks—many of which preserve Igbo proverbs and fables. The “Gwo Gwo” phenomenon revitalised interest in his storytelling artistry, sparked emotional gratitude, and brought generous tributes to his doorstep, including gifts of cash and even a car from Brain Jotter .
Impact of His Passing
At 95, Mike Ejeagha was among the last of the post-war folk highlife musicians. Known for his humility and cultural richness, his work bridged generations—educating, entertaining, and uplifting Nigerian cultural heritage. His sudden passing leaves a deep void in the nation’s music and folklore landscape .
In Summary:
Mike Ejeagha was not just the voice behind a viral TikTok dance—he was a cultural icon whose life’s work wove Igbo folklore into the fabric of Nigeria’s artistic identity. While “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” skyrocketed him to modern fame, it also highlighted the timeless power of storytelling through music. His melodies and message will echo across generations far beyond his passing.
