Enugu State Government Renames Road After Highlife Legend Mike Ejeagha, Pledges Lifetime Support

The Enugu State Government has honoured the legendary Igbo folk singer, Mike Ejeagha, by renaming the popular Obinagu Road in Abakpa Nike to Mike Ejeagha Road. This road, which leads to the 91-year-old musician’s residence, was rebuilt earlier in the year to recognise his immense contributions to the state’s cultural heritage.

Governor Peter Mbah, who disclosed this on Monday via X, also commissioned four newly constructed and reconstructed roads in Abakpa Nike, including the freshly renamed Mike Ejeagha Road. The governor emphasised the importance of celebrating individuals who have shaped the identity of Enugu State and announced that the state government has taken over the responsibility for Ejeagha’s upkeep as part of its commitment to preserving the legacies of Indigenous legends.

The post read, “It was a pleasure to visit our living legend, Mike Ejeagha, and to commission four newly constructed and reconstructed roads in Abakpa Nike. In recognition of Mike Ejeagha’s immense contributions to the cultural heritage of Enugu State, we have renamed Obinagu Road, leading to his residence, and reconstructed it earlier in the year to Mike Ejeagha Road.

Ejeagha, who introduced the world to his genre of highlife folklore music over 40 years ago, has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity. His 1983 hit song, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” went viral after skit maker Brain Jotter used the refrain “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” in his content, sparking a nationwide trend. The song’s resurgence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram has brought renewed attention to Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music.

Earlier in July, Brain Jotter visited the folk legend at his residence, gifting him ₦2 million in appreciation of his influence. Governor Mbah, in his statement, also reassured the residents of Abakpa and Enugu State that his administration remains committed to transforming the state, with 141 road construction projects, including 20 rural roads, already underway.

The resurgence of Ejeagha’s music and the state’s recognition of his cultural impact highlights the importance of honouring those who have played pivotal roles in shaping the rich history and culture of Enugu State.

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Chinalurumogu Eze

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