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In the colourful world of Nigerian entertainment, few phrases have rapidly gone viral and caught mainstream attention like “ganusi”, uttered by fuji icon, Wasiu Ayinde, aka K1 de Ultimate, in the lead up to his late mum’s burial.
While discussing with an unidentified man, K1 had used the phrase “Ganusi” in reference to some Islamic clerics (alfas). Many interpreted the remark as implying that certain alfas attend such ceremonies primarily for financial gain.
This led to an avalanche of criticisms from different alfas and other Nigerians who felt that K1 denigrated the clerics with that statement. However, the singer doubled down on the remark and maintained that he had done nothing wrong, and did not see the need to apologise.
Meanwhile, the catchy phrase has quickly evolved into a viral lingo that’s widely used across social media, at parties, on the streets and in casual conversations.
Also taking advantage of the social mileage the phrase has garnered, K1 has infused it into a song, which he has been using to thrill his fans at different gatherings.
Controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola, aka Portable, who has proved to be quite prolific at turning trending issues and slangs into songs, has also a recorded a track with the same title.
The attention-grabbing phrase has been used in multiple contexts in recent times. During the week, our correspondent overhead a rewire (motor electrician) calling out to his colleague, “What are you doing over there? You’ve gone to ganusi, abi?”
Another man could be heard on the phone telling a friend, “Let’s meet up after work tonight and go to a bar to ganusi.”
Social media platforms such as X (Twitter), Instagram and TikTok have also played undeniable roles in spreading the popularity of the phrase. In particular, TikTok creators were quick to latch onto the word, incorporating it into short skits, dance videos and challenges.
This is even as social media influencers, comedians and other entertainers have been using the phrase in their contents, further cementing its place in Nigerian pop culture.
Indeed, the phrase has become a reflection of Nigerians unique approach to entertainment—blending music, language and humor into a single, identifiable experience.
Some have also posited that it shows how music and language can shape and reflect the social fabric of the nation, where expressions are often born from the most unlikely places and take on lives of their own.
However, this is not the first time that K1’s slang has resonated deeply with the Nigerian audience.
‘Ade Ori Okin’ and ‘Solo Makinde’, which are both titles of his songs, are examples of how his lingos have found their way from the music studio to the nooks and cranny of the country, and beyond.
