Actress and film producer Ini Edo has responded to criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over the title of her film, A Very Dirty Christmas.
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In a statement, Ini Edo explained that the title was never meant to demean Christianity or disrespect the Christmas season.
She emphasised that the film aims to spark reflection and conversation, and that all necessary approvals were obtained from regulatory bodies, including the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).
Ini Edo, a self-described devout Christian, assured that she would never knowingly create content that disrespects her faith or the Christmas season.
She described the title as metaphorical, reflecting the story’s themes and realities.
The statement reads: “Art, at its highest form, is meant to provoke thought, spark conversation, and reflect the complexities of human experience. It is in this spirit that A Very Dirty Christmas was created.
“Prior to the release of this film, all legal and regulatory requirements governing motion pictures in Nigeria were fully complied with, including securing the appropriate approval from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), and others. At no time was there any intention to demean, ridicule, or dishonour Christianity, the Christmas season, or the values held dear by millions of Nigerians.
“I am a devout Christian. My faith is deeply personal to me, and it guides my values, my choices, and my life. I would never knowingly create or associate myself with any work that seeks to misrepresent, disrespect, or undermine my religion or the essence of Christmas.
“The title of the film is metaphorical, reflecting the story being told and the realities explored within it. Christmas, while sacred, is also a season that often reveals the contrast between appearance and truth, joy and struggle, virtue and human imperfection. Storytelling has always relied on contrast to encourage reflection—not to cause offense.
“It is also important to note that we have since been publicly promoting this film, with its title clearly visible across multiple media platforms. During this entire period, no concerns or objections were raised. It is therefore surprising that reservations are only being expressed after the film has been released and duly approved by the appropriate regulatory authority. Early engagement would have allowed for constructive dialogue and mutual understanding before now.
“I acknowledge the concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and I respect the important role faith plays in our society. Nigeria thrives when dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect guide our engagements, especially at the intersection of faith, culture, and creative expression.”
The actress invited everyone to watch the film and judge it for themselves, announcing plans to visit cinemas for meet-and-greet sessions.
“I invite everyone to go to cinemas across Nigeria to watch A Very Dirty Christmas for themselves. See the story, feel the message, and judge it in its proper context. I will continue to visit cinemas for meet-and-greet sessions, so please look out for me at a cinema close to you. I can’t wait to meet you and share this experience together,” she added.
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