The title of Ini Edo’s new film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas,’ has sparked significant backlash, with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) labeling it as disrespectful to the Christian faith.
Nollywood actress Ini Edo, who stars in the movie, is at the center of this controversy. The CAN expressed its concerns in a statement released on Tuesday, emphasizing that Christmas is a revered time celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. They believe that the film’s title undermines the spiritual significance of this important holiday.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, articulated these sentiments, stating that the term "dirty" associated with Christmas detracts from the holiday's true essence, which embodies purity, love, peace, and redemption.
In his statement, he pointed out, "The title 'A Very Dirty Christmas' is deeply troubling to us; it is deemed offensive and shows a lack of respect for our beliefs. Christmas represents a sacred period, and linking such a holy event to the concept of 'dirty' diminishes its spiritual importance, reducing a solemn observance to something crass and sensational."
While the association acknowledges the artistic liberties filmmakers enjoy, they argue that such freedoms must be exercised with care and an understanding of sensitivity, especially in a country as religiously diverse as Nigeria.
In light of these concerns, CAN has called upon the National Film and Video Censors Board to clarify how such a title was permitted for public viewing, particularly during a time when many are celebrating the Christmas season.
Daniel Okoh also urged industry associations, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria, to take a definitive stance regarding the portrayal of religious themes and symbols, ensuring that they do not offend different faith communities.
Furthermore, CAN appealed to producer Ini Edo to consider the issues raised by the title and take necessary actions to address them.
The association cautioned that trivializing sacred values, especially in the midst of Nigeria’s ongoing moral and social challenges, could exacerbate divisions and erode mutual respect among various groups.
‘A Very Dirty Christmas,’ produced by Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason, hit theaters across the nation on December 16, 2025. The film explores the complexities of a family reunion during Christmas, which is marred by hidden secrets and past traumas, ultimately transforming what should be a joyful celebration into a scene filled with emotional strife.
