Ghanaian musician and filmmaker Wanlov the Kubolor has shared the amusing story behind his childhood nickname “Spooky,” tracing it back to his school days.
Speaking in an interview, Wanlov recalled being a mischievous student in junior high, often distracting classmates and disrupting lessons. One memorable incident involved his English literature teacher, Miss Aketi Akuedu, who was discussing The Phantom of the Opera. When asked to summarise the lesson, Wanlov responded that the topic was “spooky.”
Initially facing punishment, he was defended by classmates who argued his description was accurate. The teacher, unfamiliar with the term, accepted his explanation, allowing him to return to his seat. The incident quickly spread across the school, and “Spooky” became his nickname.
Wanlov also recounted other nicknames from senior school, including “Oshin” and “Abena Felicia,” inspired by his playful antics. Despite early mischief, he said he eventually embraced responsibility, even becoming a school leader by the end of Form One.
Reflecting on his formative years, Wanlov joked that the traits of curiosity, playfulness, and rule-bending that earned him nicknames have carried into his creative career in music and film, highlighting the enduring link between childhood experiences and artistic expression.