Brain Jotter Honors Mike Ejeagha, the Voice That Never Faded
When a sound from decades past finds new rhythm in today’s world, it’s more than nostalgia—it’s a revival. And that’s exactly what happened when comedian Brain Jotter brought the late Mike Ejeagha’s music back into the spotlight, just before the highlife icon took his final bow.
Ejeagha, a revered storyteller and musician, passed away at the age of 95. But before his departure, he witnessed a beautiful resurgence of one of his old tracks—“Gwo Gwo Ngwo”—thanks to a viral challenge that swept through social media like wildfire.
On Instagram, Brain Jotter posted a tribute that said it all:
“39 years ago, he made magic. 39 years later, we danced to it again. Now, he rests — but his melody lives forever.”
A few months prior, in July 2024, the comedian had made a heartfelt visit to Ejeagha’s home in Enugu. The purpose? To thank him for a song that had unexpectedly united a generation. The skit, paired with Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche, turned into a nationwide sensation—and gave the musician a glimpse of renewed love for his work.
During the visit, Ejeagha’s family expressed deep gratitude. His son, moved by the moment, said, “In over 30 years, this is the most attention his music has received.” Brain Jotter also donated ₦2 million to the family as a token of appreciation.
Sadly, just months later, news of the legend’s passing stirred tributes from every corner of the country.
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A Farewell from the Nation’s Leaders
President Bola Tinubu led the tributes, calling Ejeagha one of Nigeria’s most treasured musical voices. In a statement through his media aide, he praised the artist for preserving Igbo heritage through music and storytelling.
He also acknowledged Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for honoring Ejeagha during his lifetime—renaming a key road in Abakpa Nike after him and inaugurating it as Chief Mike Ejeagha Road.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined in, reflecting on the joy the viral trend brought the late musician. “It’s comforting to know that Mike Ejeagha got his encore moment, thanks to Brain Jotter,” he wrote.
Peter Obi, too, paid his respects, describing Ejeagha as a “cultural beacon” whose songs will continue to teach and inspire. “His lyrics were full of proverbs, guiding both the young and the old,” he said.
Governor Mbah echoed those words, describing the musician’s passing as a monumental loss to Enugu State and promising to preserve his legacy.
Old Song, New Life
The song that sparked this emotional revival was originally released in 1983. It told the tale of a clever tortoise who outwits an elephant to win a princess’s heart. Brain Jotter’s playful skit brought the story to life with a chase scene and that unforgettable chorus—“Gwo gwo gwo ngwo.”
What followed was a burst of creativity. A dance challenge was born, where two people shuffled in sync before one sprinted away while the other gave chase. The clip became a national obsession, crossing borders and racking up millions of views. From celebrities to school kids, priests to footballers, everyone joined in.
Even the Super Falcons were seen doing the shuffle, and the trend soon attracted international attention as people from around the world took part in the movement.
A Life Lived in Melody
Born in the early 1930s in Owa, Enugu State, Mike Ejeagha wasn’t just a singer—he was a storyteller, a teacher, and a custodian of culture. With his acoustic guitar and words laced in proverbs, he passed down lessons about life, humility, and resilience.
His music lives on—not only through records and videos but in the renewed energy of a generation that danced, laughed, and remembered.
He may have left the stage, but his voice still plays.
