By
Dr Innocent Chidumebi Okonkwo.
Few weeks ago, the Omabala music scene lost one of it's most talented voices, Mr Osita Ejike popularly known as Alhaji Galadima, an indigene of Umumbo in Ayamelum Local government Area of Anambra State at the age of 47 years, after a brief illness of two days. And quite unfortunate that Galadima's elder brother who is a lawyer and DSP of police, Barr. Uberima also gave up the following morning. Both Galadima's and Uberima's corpses are currently lying in the mortuary.
As a prominent member of Omabala Egwu ekpili group, Galadima left an indelible mark on the Omabala Egwu ekpili music industry and the broader Igbo cultural landscape. His untimely death was a blow to his fans, who usually assemble at Villa point Hotels Aguleri to listen to his powerful vocals and poignant story telling through music.
The last time I saw him on stage was in May 2024, at Villa point Hotel, he kept ulogizing Emeka Chinwuba, Chuduve Anosike and I, and ended up with a chorus "Echezokwena one pound okwa mmanwu"
As a music activist, Galadima believed that Igbos could get things right if they start building her institutions, however, the burden rests on the people. His music epitomized friendly relationship and promotion of Omabala culture.
The Umumbo indigene started his musical career from Ikwa abu spanning over two decades, and rose to become one of the best musicians in Omabala na Oyi area.
The experience of Galadima gracing an occasion is memorable. People prepare ahead to watch his performance which was full of satire and allegory. Most atimes he utilized satire to make his criticisms.
Ever listened to "Alhaji otiegwu, onye Umu mboko" ? That was a masterpiece from Galadima. Probably, you have listened to "Akwa na Ani Oba kalisia umu iruie". He also utilized his music to motivate young men by eulogizing the successful men in the society.
The Umumbo born singer also applied satire of the economic and political climate of our time in entertaining his fans with Ayamelum dialect. Indeed Ndi Omabala na Oyi will miss Alhaji otiegwu onye Umumbo.
Popular hit songs by Alhaji Galadima:
Oso iji, Ogom egbunam, Aka awubago, Ezigbo mmadi, obu egwu anyi and others.
His unique contributions to the history of Egwu ekpili music will be remembered by all who had the privilege of experiencing his artistry.
May his soul rest in peace.