CAN Berates Ini Edo Over ‘Offensive’ Christmas Movie Title
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has slammed actress Ini Edo over the title of her new film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, labelling it as “offensive and a mockery” of the Christian faith.
The association, in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its president, Daniel Okoh, argued that the title undermines the spiritual essence of Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
CAN emphasised that Christmas represents purity, peace, love, and redemption, stating that associating the sacred occasion with the word “dirty” degrades a solemn religious observance into something crude and sensational.
The association also called upon the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to provide clarity on how such a title was approved for public release, especially during the festive season.
While affirming its respect for creative freedom, CAN stressed that artistic expression must be practised with responsibility and sensitivity in Nigeria’s multi-religious society.
“Creativity should build understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs,” the statement read.
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CAN expressed concern that a film bearing such a title passed through regulatory and professional channels without what it described as “adequate scrutiny”.
The association called on industry bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood stakeholders, to take a firm stand against the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that may offend faith communities.
It also called on the producer of the film, Ini Edo, to be sensitive to the concerns raised by the Christian community.
CAN also demanded that the producers and promoters of the movie reconsider its title, issue a public apology to Christians and ensure that religious symbols and sacred seasons are treated with dignity.
“At a time when the nation is already facing serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values only deepen division and erode mutual respect,” the association added.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
