The Hykkers were a seminal Nigerian rock and soul band characterised by their unique origin as a group “engineered” by the Nigerian Army. Originally based in Lagos during the 1960s under the name The International Hykkers, the band featured a revolving door of elite talent, including Joni Haastrup, Pat Finn, and Tony Benson.
Following the Nigerian Civil War, the group relocated to Owerri, Imo State, where they became a dominant force in the post-war “East”. Under the leadership of Bob Miga, the band’s most celebrated 1970s lineup included Jake Sollo, Emile Lawson, Jeff Stone Afam, Okonjo, and Felix Umuofia. Their sound was a sophisticated blend of heavy psychedelic rock, soul, and local influences, which they captured in a series of landmark recordings for EMI Nigeria. The band is remembered not only for their technical prowess but also for the legendary musicians who passed through their ranks, most notably the late producer and guitarist Jake Sollo.
Complete Discography
All known primary releases were issued in 1972 via the His Master’s Voice label, manufactured by EMI Nigeria Ltd. and Record Manufacturers Nigeria Ltd. (R.M.N.L.).
Singles & EPs (7″ Vinyl, 45 RPM)
- Deiyo Deiyo (Akpulunwobi) / I Want A Break Thru’ (1972)
- Label: His Master’s Voice (HNS 1146)
- God Gave His Only Son / Stone The Flower (1972)
- Label: His Master’s Voice (HNS 1280)
Band Personnel (Cumulative List): Bob Miga, Emile Lawson, Jake Sollo, Jeff Afam, Jeremiah “Ify Jerry” Jiagbogbu, Jerry Samuels, Joni Haastrup, Pat Finn, Tony Benson, Willy Bestman, Okonjo, and Felix Umuofia.
Some Historians regard The Hykkers as the first superband in Nigeria, going by the star-studded line-up. Eventually, The Hykkers split. Bob Miga and a few members regrouped as The Strangers. Bob Miga later relocated to the United Kingdom, where he passed on in 2014. Jake Sollo teamed up with Harry Mosco and other youngsters to form the Funkees. Jake Sollo later became one of the top producers in Nigeria, impacting the careers of Esbee Family, Felix Lebarty, The Mandators. Veno Marhiogae, Jide Obi, and several other stars of the early 80s. Pat Finn had a successful solo career and was a prominent voice and face in the entertainment circuit in Benin City. Joni Haastrup is better known for his association with Ginger Baker. and later putting together the Mono Mono band,
What was happening in 1970s Eastern Nigeria wasn’t a neat band structure—it was more like a creative circuit. Musicians moved between rehearsal spaces, studios, campus gigs, and city nightlife, carrying ideas with them. That’s how a sound spreads fast without formal industry systems. This is the exact reason you see the same names across different bands