The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has criticised the title of a new Nollywood film, A Very Dirty Christmas, produced by actress Ini Edo, describing it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said Christmas is a sacred season that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love, and redemption. He argued that associating the celebration with the word “dirty” undermines its spiritual significance and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.
CAN expressed concern that the film’s title appeared to have passed through regulatory and professional channels without adequate scrutiny. The association called on the National Film and Video Censors Board to explain how such a title was approved for public exhibition, especially during the Christmas season.
While acknowledging the importance of artistic freedom, CAN stressed that creativity must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, particularly in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria. According to the association, creative expression should promote understanding and unity rather than offend deeply held religious beliefs.
The Christian body also urged Nollywood stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria, to take a clear stand on the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that could provoke or hurt faith communities. It specifically called on the film’s producer, Ini Edo, to show sensitivity and address the concerns raised by Christians nationwide.
CAN warned that at a time when the country faces serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values risk deepening divisions and weakening mutual respect among citizens.
A Very Dirty Christmas, directed by Akay Mason, was released in cinemas across Nigeria on December 16, 2025. The film tells the story of a tense family reunion during the Christmas season, where unresolved secrets and past traumas disrupt what should have been a joyful celebration.
Credit: Punch News
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