Fashion illustrator calls out Priscilla Ojo, stylist over alleged design theft

By Damilola Akinwale –

A fashion illustrator has called out Nigerian social media influencer Priscilla Ojo and her stylist, Julyet Peters, over the alleged unauthorised use of her fashion design at a recent brand launch.

The illustrator, known as Fashion Illustrator 01 on Instagram, raised the complaint in a post shared on Wednesday, claiming that she created the design to sell to brands and earn commissions. However, she alleged that the design was reproduced and worn by Priscilla without her permission, proper credit or financial compensation.

She shared pictures of her original red embellished corporate outfit alongside the brown outfit worn by Priscilla, which she claimed was a replica.

The illustrator said she initially attempted to resolve the matter privately but alleged that little was done beyond editing a social media post to tag her. She maintained that tagging her did not replace proper authorisation or compensation.

Reacting to the allegations, an Instagram page associated with Priscilla, identified as The JP Shield, defended her, arguing that wearing an outfit does not make someone responsible for designing or creating it. The page urged critics to direct complaints about design ownership and credit to the stylists or fashion designers involved.

“It is becoming a disturbing pattern to drag her name and circulate her pictures whenever there’s an opportunity to generate controversy and engagement. Her popularity should not be an excuse to make her the target of every professional disagreement… Stop using her name for publicity,” the page administrators added.

Following the escalation of the dispute, the illustrator said she faced intense backlash, criticism and threats directed at her and her loved ones. She subsequently deleted her complaint videos and withdrew from the matter, citing concerns for her safety and peace of mind while maintaining that she only wanted fair recognition for her work.

Western Post reports that creatives are advised to use clear agreements, including non-disclosure and design-retention clauses, before sharing concepts with prospective clients. Original sketches and eligible designs can also be protected through the appropriate processes administered by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to strengthen claims against unauthorised reproduction.