Forty years after introducing the world to his musical genre, highlife folklore, legendary highlife singer Mike Ejeagha, whose 1983 hit recently went viral thanks to sketch artist Brain Jotter, is reaping the fruits of his labor handsomely.
The Enugu State Government has inaugurated four newly constructed and reconstructed roads in Abakpa Nike, including the recently renamed Mike Ejeagha, formerly Obinagu Road.
The road leading to the legendary musician's residence was rebuilt earlier this year in recognition of his contributions to the state's cultural heritage.
State Governor Peter Mbah disclosed this on X on Monday.
The statement read: “It was a pleasure to visit our living legend, Mike Ejeagha, and commission the construction and reconstruction of four new roads in Abakpa Nike. In recognition of Mike Ejeagha’s immense contributions to the cultural heritage of Enugu State, we have renamed Obinagu Road, which leads to his residence, and reconstructed it earlier this year as Mike Ejeagha Road.
“Enugu is a state rich in history, talent and culture. We need to honour and celebrate those who have shaped our identity. Today, our government fully supports Mike Ejeagha and takes responsibility for his upkeep as part of our commitment to preserve the legacy of our indigenous legends.”
The governor also assured residents of Abakpa and Enugu State that his government recently awarded contracts for the construction of 141 highways and 20 rural roads, and Abakpa is certainly included.
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He said: “We will very soon commence the doubling of Penocks Junction on the Enugu-Onitsha road which will extend to Opi-Nsukka. The contract has been awarded and works will commence shortly. Our commitment to the transformation of Enugu State is unwavering with many more roads and projects underway to improve the lives of our people. Tomorrow is here!”
Fate may be delayed, but it cannot be denied – a statement that rings true for legendary highlife singer Mike Ejeagha, whose 1983 hit recently went viral, thanks to sketch artist Chukwuebuka Amuzie’s Brain Jotter.
Interestingly, 'Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo' is not the title of a song; it is the chorus of “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”, a song from Ejeagha's 'Akuko Na Egwu' original vol. 1, a music album released in 1983.
Renewed fame
Mike Ejeagha, a 92-year-old Igbo folk singer, has recently experienced a resurgence of fame due to the viral success of his 41-year-old song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche.”
This renewed fame is similar to the experience of Obesere, whose song “Egungun Be Careful” went viral 18 years after its initial release. Ejeagha’s song tells the whimsical story of a tortoise tricking an elephant and has captivated a new generation of listeners.
The song’s resurgence can be attributed to a viral dance challenge by sketch artist Brain Jotter. The challenge involves dancers moving their waists and doing leg exercises to the song. The challenge video garnered millions of views and sparked a trend on TikTok. As a result of the song’s renewed popularity, Ejeagha has received cash gifts and even a car from Brain Jotter.
The song's revival has brought attention to Ejeagha's contributions to Nigerian music, although only a few people know the story behind the man and his music.
Ejeagha’s musical journey began during primary school in Enugu State, where he was born in August 1932. Influential guitarists Moses Aduba and Cyprian Uzochiawa sparked his passion for music. Inspired by their talent, Ejeagha formed his band, “Mike Ejeagha and Merry-makers,” in 1950.
Her rise to fame was fueled by her participation in radio shows such as “Guitar Playtime” and “Akuko n’egwu” (meaning “musical storytelling”). Through these platforms, she shared captivating folk tales and music that resonated deeply with audiences due to their social and cultural significance.