CAN Raises Concerns Over NFVCB Clearance of Ini Edo’s ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the title of the movie A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as offensive to the Christian faith and demanding a public apology from the film’s producers, including Nollywood actress and producer, Ini Edo.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said the film’s title trivialises the spiritual essence of Christmas and undermines values held sacred by millions of Christians across Nigeria.

According to the Association, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and embodies purity, peace, love and redemption. CAN warned that associating the holy season with the word “dirty” diminishes its spiritual significance.

 “Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love and redemption. Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational,” Archbishop Okoh said.

Beyond religious concerns, CAN questioned the role of regulatory authorities, expressing surprise that the film’s title was approved for public exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season.

The Association called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title passed through official scrutiny.

“The Association is concerned that a film bearing such a title passed through regulatory and professional channels without adequate scrutiny. CAN therefore calls on the National Film and Video Censors Board to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition, especially during the Christmas season,” the statement added.

CAN also urged Nollywood professional bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other industry stakeholders, to take a firm stance on the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that may offend faith communities.

While reaffirming its respect for creative freedom and artistic expression, CAN stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly in a multi-religious society like Nigeria.

“Creativity should build understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs,” Archbishop Okoh said.

The Christian body specifically called on the producers and promoters of the film to reconsider the title and issue a public apology, naming Ini Edo and urging her to address the concerns raised by the Christian community.

 “CAN calls on the producer, Ini Edo, to show sensitivity and address the concerns raised by the Christian community,” the Association stated.

CAN warned that at a time when Nigeria is grappling with serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values risk deepening divisions and eroding mutual respect.

Despite its strong stance, the Association said it remains committed to peaceful engagement and will continue to speak out whenever the dignity of the Christian faith is undermined in public spaces.