I Met Mike Ejeagha- By Azuh Arinze
Yes, I met the legendary folklorist and guitarist, Mike Ejeagha. But just once.
I can’t recall the exact date anymore, but the occasion remains etched in my memory.
It was in 1999, during the burial of the flamboyant and controversial businessman, Victor Nnamdi Okafor – popularly known as Ezego – in Uzoakwa, Ihiala, Anambra State.
Ejeagha was already an elder then, but still active and engaging. Seated in a corner at what was more of a carnival than a burial, he strummed his signature guitar, his voice resonating through the crowd with his timeless folk tunes.
Guests, mesmerized by his melodies, occasionally stepped forward to shower him with bundles of naira – pressing them onto his face and body in appreciation.
From a distance, my colleagues and I – there to cover the event for Encomium Weekly (my second professional stop after Fame Weekly) – watched in admiration. Like many others, I had grown up listening to his rich, philosophical songs on radio and television.
Years later, seeing him brought back to the limelight by comedian Brain Jotter was deeply moving. It felt like a moment lifted straight out of one of his beloved tracks, Uwa Mgbede Ka Nma – loosely translated, “Evening life is sweeter.”
Indeed, Mike Ejeagha enjoyed a renaissance before death came calling on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 95. In his final years, his legend grew even more. The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mba – who initially had no idea about where he lived – not only visited him but also renamed his street in his honour and placed him on a monthly stipend. He was deservedly given his flowers while alive – and smiled and sang his way to the grave.
May his gentle soul rest in peace. Amen.
Azuh Arinze is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of YES INTERNATIONAL! Magazine and author of several notable titles including The CEO’s Bible (Volumes 1 & 2), Success Is Not Served A La Carte, Conversations With Showbiz Stars, Anything and Everything Journalism, Encounters: Lessons From My Journalism Career, My Story of Many Colours, and A Taste of Success.
