The family of late highlife legend Mike Ejeagha has honoured his final wish by laying him to rest just 24 hours after his death.
The first son of the veteran musician, Emmanuel Ejeagha Jnr, revealed in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday that his father had instructed the family not to embalm him and to ensure he was buried within a day of his death.
“My father made a wish and warned us not to embalm him after his death, which we have fulfilled,” he said.
The revered “Gwo gwo ngwo” crooner died on Friday night at the age of 95 at 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after a prolonged illness.
He was buried the following day at his country home in Umuagba, Imezi-Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Ejeagha Jnr explained that he acted swiftly upon his father’s death by informing other family members and kindred, who all agreed to honour the musician’s wishes. He also said Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah was informed and gave his support.
“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, and even Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State was informed about it, and they all consented that whatever his wish was should be kept.
“There are a lot of consequential results if an elder said something and otherwise was done,” he added.
He noted that a formal funeral ceremony would be announced soon.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Mike Ejeagha, popularly known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” was celebrated for his storytelling style of music that combined highlife with rich Igbo folklore.
Through his songs, he passed on proverbs, wisdom and moral teachings to generations of listeners.
He is survived by his children and grandchildren.
