Uzoma Odimara, popularly known as Area Scatter,[1] was a cross-dressing performer who gained popularity in the post-Nigerian Civil War era of the 1970s in Imo State, Eastern Nigeria.[2]
Early life
editArea Scatter was born in Imo State, South East Nigeria; but the date of birth is unknown, as little is known about Area Scatter's early life. He was reportedly a civil servant during the years of the Nigerian Civil War. Amidst the chaos of the civil war, he disappeared into the woods and the reasons for his disappearance remain very elusive thus, adding an aura of intrigue to his narrative.[3]
Career
editHe rose to fame in the late 1970s for his unconventional and daring approach to entertainment. He was known for his flamboyant style as he would braid his hair, wear makeup, and fabrics while walking around in heels, and playing music in the homes of the upper class.[4] He was also known for the thumb piano, beautiful voice, and charismatic presence.[citation needed]
As an entertainer, Area Scatter performed as a cross-dresser, actor, comedian, and performer.[5][unreliable source?]
Through his art, Area Scatter aimed to raise awareness and promote tolerance for gender diversity, using his talent as a platform to challenge societal norms.[6][unreliable source?]
Personal life
editAfter his mysterious disappearance, he re-emerged from seclusion as a woman, boldly claiming that the gods had bestowed supernatural powers upon him.[7][8]
References
edit- ^ Iwalaiye, Temi (2022-08-02). "The long history of cross-dressing in Nigeria". Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-09-28.
- ^ Agwu, Victoria (June 1, 2022). "Area Scatter: Nigerian Queer Icon". RECLAIMED.
- ^ Okeke, N.C (1975). "The Enigma of Area Scatter: A Musical Odyssey". Imo Journal of Cultural Studies: 45–60.
- ^ "Adichie, Akwaeke and Area Scatter". The Nation. November 19, 2020.
- ^ Adene, Gift (2020-03-16). "Bobrisky who? Meet Area scatter the first cross dresser in Imo state (Photos)". Kemi Filani News. Retrieved 2023-09-28.
- ^ Ago, Chuxlouisin #life • 6 Years (2017-08-09). "THE CURIOUS CASE OF AREA SCATTER {was Area Scatter Nigeria's first ever known transvestite and celebrity cross-dresser ??}". Steemit. Retrieved 2023-09-28.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ Yaakugh, Kumashe (2020-03-16). "Bobrisky's mummy G.O - Nigerians react to video of country's first cross-dresser". Legit.ng - Nigeria news. Retrieved 2023-11-28.
- ^ Okoro, A. I. (1982). "Gender and Identity in Nigerian Music: The Area Scatter Phenomenon". Journal of African Musicology. 15(4): 120-135.