President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to late highlife legend and folklorist, Mike Ejeagha, describing his death as a profound loss to Nigeria’s cultural and musical heritage.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President acknowledged Ejeagha’s enduring impact on traditional music, particularly for his work in preserving Igbo folklore through song.
“He was one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language,” the statement read.
President Tinubu praised the late musician for his use of music as a vehicle for storytelling and cultural preservation, noting that Ejeagha’s artistry inspired generations and kept ancestral wisdom alive.
“May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation,” he added.
The President also commended the Enugu State Government, led by Governor Peter Mbah, for honouring the legendary artist while he was still alive, a gesture he described as a worthy recognition of a cultural icon.
Ejeagha, aged 95, died on Friday evening at 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after a long illness. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha.
“My father passed away due to a long-standing ailment,” Emma told reporters in Enugu.
President Tinubu concluded his message by praying for the peaceful repose of the late musician’s soul and extended condolences to the bereaved family, fans, and the wider music community.
