Born on August 10, 1904, in Nteje, present-day Oyi LGA, Anambra state, the legendary Akunwafor Ezeigbo Obiligbo is hailed as the father of Igbo highlife music, leaving an indelible mark on the rich cultural heritage of his people.
Best known as a master of Egwu Ekpili and the native ubo aka, Akunwafor earned his traditional ozo chieftaincy title, signifying his esteemed status in the community. While he initially pursued a career as a farmer, his life took a transformative turn when he had a fateful dream in 1934, sparking the beginning of his musical journey.
As one of the many traditional musicians in Nteje, Akunwafor began his performances at local events, including funerals, weddings, and other traditional ceremonies. However, it was his powerful lyrics, enriched with deep Igbo proverbs and praise singing, that propelled his popularity to new heights.
Chief Obiligbo’s impressive body of work, primarily in the Gramophone Record format, reflects his profound impact on Igbo traditional music. Many of his greatest compositions were preserved on the pioneering Nigerphone Record label at Onitsha, owned by the famous businessman of the early 20th century, C.T. Onyekwelu. This studio, operating during the 1930s-50s, stood as the most advanced facility in Igboland and paved the way for subsequent recording studios and companies like Rogers All Stars and Tabansi Records.
Although Akunwafor may not be a household name for the younger generation, his significance to the older generation remains immeasurable. Former Nigerian Head of State, Major General Yakubu Gowon, was among his ardent admirers, once gifting him a 504 Peugeot car after witnessing his mesmerizing performances.
Chief Akunwafor Ezigbo Obiligbo’s musical legacy continues to resonate, as he is the grandfather of the present-day highlife music stars, Akunwafor and Okpuozor, popularly known as Umu Obiligbo. His hit tracks, including “Igba ndi eze,” “Eze Idigo,” “Egwu Gowon,” “Ogwugwu Akwa,” and “Njenje Amaka Mma,” have left an indelible mark on the hearts of his audience.
As we celebrate the life and contributions of this musical pioneer, we honor his memory and the cultural heritage he enriched. May Chief Akunwafor Ezigbo Obiligbo continue to rest in power, forever remembered as a trailblazer and guardian of Igbo highlife music.
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