The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has publicly expressed its outrage and deep offense over the title of a newly released Christmas-themed movie produced by popular Nollywood actress, Ini Edo.
CAN Condemns 'A Very Dirty Christmas' as Sacrilegious
In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the umbrella Christian body described the movie title, 'A Very Dirty Christmas', as crossing a sensitive religious line. CAN stated that the choice of words is inappropriate and offensive to the Christian faith, especially during the sacred season commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
The association emphasized that Christmas symbolizes purity, peace, love, and redemption. It argued that attaching the word "dirty" to this solemn celebration strips it of its spiritual significance and reduces it to something crude and sensational. While acknowledging creative freedom, CAN insisted that such liberty must be exercised with responsibility, particularly in a religiously diverse nation like Nigeria.
Regulatory Approval and Calls for Accountability
Beyond its condemnation, CAN raised serious concerns about the film's regulatory journey. The association questioned how the title passed through professional channels without being flagged. It specifically called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to provide an explanation for approving the title for public exhibition during the Christmas period, when religious sensitivities are particularly heightened.
CAN also urged industry stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood bodies, to take a firm stand on the portrayal of religious themes and sacred symbols in films. The statement underscored that creativity should foster understanding and unity, not offend deeply held beliefs.
Demand for Apology and Title Change
In a direct appeal, CAN called for an immediate reconsideration of the movie's title and a public apology from the producers to the Christian community in Nigeria. The association singled out producer and actress Ini Edo, urging her to show sensitivity and address the widespread concerns.
CAN warned that at a time when Nigeria is grappling with significant moral and social challenges, actions that trivialize sacred values only serve to deepen divisions and erode mutual respect among citizens. The body sees the resolution of this issue as crucial for preserving social harmony.
The controversy emerges alongside unrelated reports of veteran actor RMD appearing to ignore Ini Edo at a recent social event, though no connection has been made between the two incidents.
