LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has criticized the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for objecting to the title of colleague Ini Edo’s new film, A Very Dirty Christmas, after its release.
Ogbonna, in a statement posted on Instagram, said he was disappointed that CAN raised concerns only after the movie had gained nationwide attention. He argued that the title had been promoted for months without objection.
“The movie title was officially approved by the Censors Board, and we moved forward in good faith,” Ogbonna wrote, questioning the timing of CAN’s intervention. He described the move as unfair and inconsistent, especially now that the film is performing well in cinemas.
Ini Edo, who produced and starred in the film, has also appealed to regulators and the public not to withdraw the movie from cinemas. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, she insisted the film does not ridicule Christianity and urged audiences to watch before passing judgment.
“Just don’t pull my film, please. Allow people to watch and then decide if it dishonours Christians,” Edo said, adding that she would personally bear the consequences if the content was found offensive to the faith.
The actress explained that the title was never intended to demean Christianity. She said the storyline focuses on family conflicts and secrets rather than religious ridicule. “This film has no dirt in it. It highlights family conflicts, secrets unfolding. It does not ridicule Christians,” she said.
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) confirmed that the title had been approved but acknowledged public concerns raised by CAN. In a statement, the board said it had asked the producers to modify the title in response to the controversy.
CAN, in its own statement, said the title of the film was “provocative and insensitive” to Christian values, especially during the Christmas season. The association argued that while artistic freedom is important, filmmakers must avoid language that could trivialize sacred traditions.
“Christmas is a holy celebration of the birth of Christ, and attaching the word ‘dirty’ to it is offensive to millions of believers,” CAN said. The group urged regulators to act decisively to protect religious sensibilities while encouraging filmmakers to choose titles that respect cultural and spiritual values.
The dispute has sparked debate in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with some defending artistic freedom and others urging sensitivity to religious sentiments. “Filmmakers should be free to explore themes without fear of censorship, but titles matter in a religious society,” said Lagos-based critic Chinedu Okafor.
Fans of Edo rallied behind the actress on social media, praising her transparency and willingness to withdraw the film if it was proven offensive. “She has shown humility and respect for faith while defending her art,” one supporter wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
Industry insiders warned that the controversy could set a precedent for future disputes between filmmakers and religious groups. “This case highlights the tension between creative expression and cultural sensitivities,” said media analyst Funke Adeyemi. For now, A Very Dirty Christmas continues screening nationwide, as discussions over its title and message unfold.
