Nigerian singer and entrepreneur Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, known as Mr Eazi, says he coined the phrase “Detty December,” which has become a popular term for the festive season in Nigeria. He made the claim during his Detty Rave concert in Accra, Ghana, explaining that the expression emerged from a conversation with friends while he was working as a show promoter in the country. According to Mr Eazi, “Detty December” was first used in 2016 to describe a December event he and his friends organized. He defines 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 grown into a cultural phenomenon that transcends his personal brand, describing it as “bigger than anybody” and belonging to everyone. This assertion is notable given the controversy surrounding the phrase’s trademark in 2019. Nigerian entrepreneur Deola Art Alade, wife of musician Darey Art Alade, secured a legal trademark for “Detty December,” prompting backlash from Nigerians who viewed the term as a shared cultural expression rather than a corporate brand. Critics saw the move as an attempt to commercialize a phrase that had become integral to the country’s festive season.
The debate highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights and cultural ownership, especially in the age of social media and popular culture. As the holiday season approaches, the term “Detty December” is likely to remain widely used despite trademark disputes. The phenomenon has become a significant part of Nigeria’s cultural landscape, symbolizing the vibrant entertainment scene and the importance of community and celebration during the holidays. How the trademark issue will be resolved—and its impact on the cultural significance of “Detty December”—remains to be seen.
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