Details have surfaced explaining why the late Highlife music icon, Mike Ejeagha, was laid to rest just 24 hours after his passing.
According to his family, the quick burial was carried out in accordance with the singer’s final wishes. Ejeagha, best known for his timeless folk hit “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” passed away on the evening of Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 95. He was buried the next day, Saturday, June 7, in his hometown of Umuagba, Imezi-Owa, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Speaking to the press on Sunday, Emmanuel Ejeagha, the late musician’s eldest son, explained that his father had specifically instructed the family not to embalm him and requested to be buried within 24 hours of his death.
“My father made it clear before his death that he did not want to be embalmed,” Emmanuel said. “He sternly instructed me, as his first son, that once he passed on, he should be buried within 24 hours. We have honoured that wish.”
He added that the family’s decision came after careful discussions with relatives and the local community.
“I contacted members of my family and informed them that my father made a wish that he should be laid to rest 24 hours after his death. I also summoned a meeting of my kindred and we discussed extensively. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah was informed about it and they all consented that whatever was his wish should be kept,” Emmanuel explained.
He further emphasized the importance of respecting the wishes of elders, noting the potential spiritual consequences of doing otherwise.
“There are a lot of consequential results if an elder said something and otherwise was done,” he added.
The family also mentioned that an official funeral and celebration of the legend’s life will be held at a later date.