“A Dirty Christmas Theme” — CAN Criticizes Ini Edo Over Movie Title, Says It Insults Christian Beliefs

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has openly criticized Nollywood actress Ini Edo over the title of her new Christmas movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as insensitive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 17, and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association said the movie’s title crosses a delicate religious boundary and undermines the sacred significance of Christmas.

Christmas Reaffirmed as a Sacred Celebration

CAN emphasized that Christmas holds profound spiritual importance for Christians, as it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and represents values such as purity, peace, love, and redemption.

According to the body, using the word “dirty” in connection with Christmas weakens its spiritual essence and turns a holy observance into something vulgar and attention-seeking.

Part of the statement read that CAN is deeply disturbed by the movie’s title, which it considers offensive to Christian beliefs. It added that Christmas is a holy season symbolizing righteousness and renewal, and associating it with negative language strips it of its sacred meaning.

Creative Freedom Comes With Responsibility

While acknowledging the importance of artistic expression, CAN noted that creative freedom should be exercised with caution, especially in a country as religiously diverse as Nigeria.

The association stated that creativity should foster unity and mutual respect, not provoke or insult deeply held religious convictions.

Concerns Raised Over Regulatory Approval

CAN also questioned how the film passed regulatory screening without objections, asking the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to clarify how such a title received approval during a period known for heightened religious sensitivity.

Appeal to Nollywood Stakeholders

The association called on key Nollywood institutions, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), to clearly define standards for portraying religious themes and sacred symbols in films.

CAN stressed that industry leaders have a responsibility to ensure movies encourage harmony rather than fuel division.

Call for Apology and Title Reconsideration

In a direct message to the filmmakers, CAN demanded a review of the movie’s title and a public apology to Christians.

Archbishop Okoh urged the NFVCB to account for its approval process and encouraged Nollywood stakeholders to take firm positions against content that could offend faith communities.

Ini Edo, as the producer of the movie, was specifically asked to demonstrate sensitivity by addressing the concerns raised by Christians. CAN warned that failure to do so could escalate social tensions.

The statement concluded by noting that, amid Nigeria’s ongoing moral and social challenges, actions that belittle sacred values only increase division and weaken mutual respect.