How Mike Ejeagha’s record label rips him off deserved music royalties

• – Mike Ejeagha’s classic song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” has gained renewed popularity due to a viral dance challenge initiated by skit maker Brain Jotter.

• – Despite increased online interest, Ejeagha faces financial hardships and has been embroiled in a 13-year legal battle with Premier Records over royalty payments, receiving minimal compensation.

• – Supporters and activists, including Charles Ogbu, have called out Premier Records for unfair treatment, demanding revised terms and fair compensation for Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music.

In recent weeks, Nigerian folktale singer Mike Ejeagha has gained renewed attention thanks to the unexpected resurgence of his classic song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo.”

The revival of this decades-old track was sparked by a popular dance challenge created by skit maker Brain Jotter, drawing significant interest and online engagement. However, the resurgence has led to debates and misunderstandings regarding the veteran artist’s royalties.

The legal struggles of Mike Ejeagha

Prominent Nigerian social media activist and columnist, Charles Ogbu, has recently addressed widespread misconceptions about Ejeagha’s financial gains from this renewed interest in his music. According to Ogbu, the highlife singer has been mired in a protracted legal battle with his record label, Premier Records, since 2006.

Ogbu detailed the extensive legal saga: “On June 5th, 2006, Premier Records sued Ejeagha, accusing him of attempting to produce a video version of one of his songs under their contract. This legal battle dragged on for over 13 years, during which time Ejeagha was subjected to numerous court appearances. In late 2018, global Igbo language and culture advocate, Amarachi Attamah introduced me to Ejeagha, and he expressed his desperation to be freed from the company’s grasp.”

Ejeagha’s legal struggles have not only drained him emotionally but also physically. Ogbu recounted how the singer showed injuries from falls he sustained while attending court hearings. Ejeagha, in his frustration, was even willing to forfeit his rights and any associated royalties if it meant gaining peace in his old age.

Financial discrepancies and public reaction

Despite his iconic status, Ejeagha’s financial compensation from Premier Records has been shockingly minimal. Ogbu revealed that the singer receives less than N30,000 every quarter from the music company, equating to less than N10,000 per month. This paltry sum has raised questions about the label’s methods for determining payments to Ejeagha.

Even with the resurgence of his music due to Brain Jotter’s viral challenge and other events, Ejeagha’s financial situation remains largely unchanged. Ogbu pointed out that every year since 2018, Ejeagha’s music has seen increased online traffic, influenced by various events such as the renovation of his Abakpa home, visits from state dignitaries, and his 91st birthday celebration. Despite the increased streaming and search traffic, Premier Records has yet to revise its terms with the aged singer.

Public sentiment has been overwhelmingly supportive of Ejeagha, with many calling for action against Premier Records. 

Agu Chidera questioned, “Can’t Premier Records be sued and Ejeagha asked to terminate his contract with the label?”

Ogeh Cynthia voiced her outrage, stating, “This is broad daylight robbery. Why are we allowing this to happen? Who are the record executives? Let’s call them out. This is totally unacceptable.”

Akonucheya Wire pointed out the systemic issues, “This is why most of our musical legends from the pre-digital era never made the money that current musicians do via streaming platforms, royalties, and endorsements.”

Emeka Mkpuma added, “Premier Records is profiting off an old man’s hard work. I think they need to be publicly shamed on social media.”

As the conversation around Mike Ejeagha’s royalties continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Premier Records will address the growing calls for fair compensation and recognition of the Highlife legend’s contributions to Nigerian music.