Ganusi: Meaning, Origin and Virality.

At almost every point in time, one or two slangs often dominate the Nigerian internet space and popular culture. The  most recent is Ganusi, which is believed to have originated from the legendary Fuji maestro,  King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as K1 De Ultimate. The word has since traction and usage on different social media platforms, most especially instagram.  Here is the meaning, origin  and virality of the word: Ganusi.

Meaning of Ganusi

The word Ganusi is yoruba word,  which has many meanings.  It can mean to go deep into something or to delve deeply into an issue. It can also be interpreted as exploring a topic in depth, becoming deeply involved in a particular topic or investigating an issue thoroughly.

However, research reveals that Nigerian popular culture, have recently modified the word to mean  the act of showing up in an uninvited place. This is in light of the event, in which the word originated.  An example of the Those Alfa came to “ganusi” at the burial event last week.

Origin of Ganusi

The word Ganusi started gaining traction few days ago,  when a video of the Popular Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as K1 De Ultimate, refused to apologise to Islamic clerics  following a controversial remark he made during his late mother’s Fidau prayer, which many found offensive.

In a clip showing K1 in conversation with a man while preparing for his late mother’s 8-day Fidau prayer, the artist was heard using the phrase “Ganusi” in reference to some Islamic clerics. Many interpreted the remark as implying that certain Alfas attend such ceremonies primarily for financial gain.

The Fidau prayer, a significant Islamic ritual held in honour of the deceased, took place on Friday, 24 January, attracting prominent celebrities and respected clerics, including Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa, who delivered a sermon at the event.

During the sermon, Sheikh Onikijipa addressed K1’s statement, offering corrections and criticisms while urging the musician to apologise to the Alfas. However, K1 De Ultimate has remained defiant, refusing to issue an apology and insisting he has done nothing wrong. He stated that apologising would imply accepting guilt, which he firmly denies.

He said, “To admit guilt means saying, ‘Okay, don’t be angry.’ But there’s no reason for that because I have done nothing wrong. If you admit guilt, you are saying the accusations are true, which they are not.”

Virality

The term “Ganusi has not only become a social media sensation for humour, but as also led to conversation on the rise of religious opportunism among Islamic cleric in Yoruba land. Numerous report and column have argued that Islamic leaders who are supposed provide spiritual duty during social gatherings, often  exploit social gatherings for material gain.

In some cases, these clerics turn Fidau prayers, naming ceremonies, and even funerals into opportunities for personal financial gain, expecting gifts, donations, and favours from hosts. A viral social media post humorously describes how clerics arrive early at events, enjoy the benefits of the gathering (such as air-conditioned comfort and elaborate meals), and often leave with monetary offerings without rendering significant spiritual service.

The Nigerian street singer Portable, following the trend recently released a track titled Ganusi, comically analysing the rift between the legendary Fuji Maestro Wasiu Ayinde and the Islamic cleric.