The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Rev Prof Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has raised concerns over the growing popularity of the “Detty December” concept, describing it as inappropriate for the month in which Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Speaking to journalists after the induction of connexional executives of the Fellowship of Methodist Evangelists, the Presiding Bishop questioned the association of the term “detty,” which he linked to “dirty,” with Christmas celebrations.
He expressed worry that the phrase could be interpreted as encouraging immoral behaviour during the festive season.
“Who decided to put the word ‘dirty’ on the month in which Jesus was born?” he asked. “Let us celebrate Christmas in the spirit in which it was established.”
Most Rev Prof Asamoah-Gyadu noted that while young people, particularly Gen Zs in parts of West Africa, have embraced “Detty December” as a cultural expression of end-of-year festivities, Christians must be mindful of the values and conduct they promote during the season.
He stressed that the celebration of Christmas should reflect its spiritual significance and hoped that the trend does not translate into what he described as “dirty things” being done in the name of celebration.
What is Detty December?
The term “Detty December” was first coined in 2019, by Ghanaian brand consultant Bernard Kafui Sokpe during a December concert for popular Nigerian artiste, Mr Eazi.
According to him, “Detty” is a playful adaptation of the Ghanaian expression “dirty your body,” which refers to engaging in fun activities that might leave one physically messed up but emotionally happy.
“It’s like when kids go out to play and come back home dirty; that shows they really had a good time,” he added.
Over time, “Detty December” has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, marked by a series of events, concerts, and gatherings that celebrate Ghanaian heritage and attract visitors worldwide.
However, some personalities, including Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin and KOD, have expressed their reservations about the term.
ID/AM
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