Recently, Nigerian comedian Brain Jotter launched a dance challenge on TikTok, reviving the classic Igbo highlife song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” and propelling it back into the limelight. Users are dancing to the timeless rhythms of Mike Ejeagha’s guitar and his proverb-laden lyrics, demonstrating that great music endures through the ages. Originally released in 1986, the song has regained popularity in 2024, prompting many to explore Mike Ejeagha’s music on platforms like YouTube.
“Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” is a captivating Igbo folklore song narrating the tale of Enyi (the elephant) and Mbe (the tortoise). In the story, the clever tortoise outwits the powerful elephant and sells him to the king to win the princess’s hand in marriage. Known for its cleverness and cunning, the tortoise successfully guides the elephant to the king, as reflected in the song’s memorable chorus, “Enyi Na Aga, Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo.”
Mike Ejeagha, born on April 4th, 1930, in Enugu State, has been a significant figure in Igbo music for over six decades. His storytelling style, rich in folklore and wisdom, has left a lasting impact. As he remarked, “Life at old age is quite enjoyable, especially when the Almighty God gives you good health.” The resurgence of “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” underscores Ejeagha’s enduring influence, continuing to inspire and entertain new generations.
Lyrics
Mike Ejeagha – Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo
Enyi na-aga, Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo…
“Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo
Ka Ana Akpo Chairman
Gwo Gwo Ngwo
Gwo Gwo Ngwo
Gwo Gwo Ngwo
Nna M Eze Akpata M Enyi 2×
Nwa Mbe isi N’ikpata Onye 2×
N’asi M Ani Ya dube Enyi chebe Enyi, Ọdi Ka asi M Akpata Enyi 2×
Ọkwa Enyi Ga Bụ isi Oche 2×
Enyi N’ Aga N’ Anyi So Gi N’ Azu, Gwo Gwo Ngwo”.
Finally, “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” is an Igbo folklore song that tells the story of Enyi (the elephant) and Mbe (the tortoise). In the tale, the clever tortoise deceives the powerful elephant and sells him to the king in exchange for marrying the princess. The tortoise, known for its cunning, successfully leads the elephant to the king, showcasing its trickery through the song’s chorus, “Enyi Na Aga, Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo.”
