The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has launched a strong condemnation of a newly released Nollywood film, demanding an immediate apology from its producers. The film in question, titled "A Very Dirty Christmas," has been labeled as deeply offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
CAN's Fierce Condemnation
In a strongly-worded press statement, CAN described the movie as "not only offensive but an act of disrespect against the Christian religion." The association expressed profound disappointment that the film was approved for release and began showing in cinemas across Nigeria on December 16, 2025.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President of CAN, personally addressed the controversy. He emphasized that Christmas is a sacred season commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, which symbolizes purity and love. "It's borderline offensive to link that to something unclean," Okoh stated, directly referencing the use of the word "dirty" in the movie's title. He argued that the title sensationalizes and demeans the profound spiritual significance of the holiday.
Questions for Regulators and Industry
CAN's criticism extends beyond the film's producers to the regulatory bodies tasked with overseeing content. The association has raised serious questions about the role played by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) in allowing a film with such a provocative title to be cleared for public viewing.
While acknowledging the creative freedom of artists, CAN insists that this freedom must be exercised with a high sense of responsibility, especially in a religiously sensitive nation like Nigeria. The group warned that such content could "further divide a society already beset with certain moral issues," particularly during the emotionally charged Christmas period.
Calls for Action and Apology
CAN has moved beyond mere criticism to issue specific demands. The association is calling on the film's producers, notably actress and producer Ini Edo, to change the movie's title and issue a public apology.
Furthermore, CAN is urging the broader Nollywood community and the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) to establish clearer standards for the treatment of religious themes and symbols. The goal is to prevent the flippant or offensive use of sacred subjects in Nigerian cinema, ensuring respect for the beliefs of all communities.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between creative expression and religious sensitivity in Nigeria's vibrant film industry. CAN's stance frames the controversy not just about a single movie title, but as a pivotal moment for the entertainment sector to reflect on its social responsibility and the respect owed to holy occasions.
