Nigerian singer and entrepreneur Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, known as Mr Eazi, has stated that he coined the phrase “Detty December,” which has become a popular term for the festive season in Nigeria. Mr Eazi made this claim during his Detty Rave concert in Accra, Ghana, where he explained that the phrase was born out of a discussion with friends while working as a show promoter in the country.
According to Mr Eazi, the phrase “Detty December” was first used in 2016 to describe a December event he and his friends organized. He defined the term as a time for people to return to their roots, have fun, and intentionally enjoy life. Mr Eazi emphasized that “Detty December” has become a cultural phenomenon that transcends his personal brand, stating that it is “bigger than anybody” and belongs to everyone.
This claim is notable, given the controversy surrounding the trademark of the phrase “Detty December” in 2019. Deola Art Alade, a Nigerian entrepreneur and wife of musician Darey Art Alade, secured a legal trademark for the term, sparking backlash from Nigerians who viewed it as a shared cultural expression rather than a corporate brand. The move was seen as an attempt to commercialize a phrase that had become an integral part of the country’s festive season.
Mr Eazi’s statement has brought attention to the origins of the phrase and its cultural significance. As the festive season approaches, it is likely that the term “Detty December” will continue to be widely used, regardless of trademark claims. The controversy surrounding the phrase highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights and cultural ownership, particularly in the context of social media and popular culture.
The “Detty December” phenomenon has become a significant part of Nigeria’s cultural landscape, symbolizing the country’s vibrant entertainment scene and the importance of community and celebration during the holiday season. As the term continues to be used and celebrated, it remains to be seen how the issue of trademark ownership will be resolved and what implications this will have for the cultural significance of “Detty December.”
