The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has criticised the title of Nollywood actress Ini Edo’s new movie, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, describing it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
CAN made this known in a statement issued by its president, Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
The association said the film title undermines the spiritual significance of Christmas, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
The association stressed that Christmas symbolises purity, peace, love and redemption, adding that linking the sacred season with the word “dirty” reduces it to something crude and sensational.
CAN also questioned how the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) approved the movie title for public release, particularly during the festive period.
While acknowledging the importance of creative freedom, the association said artistic expression must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity in Nigeria’s multi-religious society.
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CAN further expressed concern that the movie passed through regulatory and professional channels without what it described as adequate scrutiny.
It called on industry bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood stakeholders, to discourage the use of religious themes in ways that could offend faith communities.
CAN urged Ini Edo and the producers of the movie to reconsider the title, issue a public apology to Christians, and ensure that religious symbols and sacred seasons are treated with dignity.
“At a time when the nation faces serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values only deepen division and erode mutual respect,” the association stated.
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