Nollywood has once again found itself at the center of a national conversation, this time not because of box office performance or acting brilliance, but due to the title of a newly released holiday film. A Very Dirty Christmas, produced by and starring Ini Edo, has generated widespread debate across Nigeria, drawing reactions from religious bodies, regulators, and the general public.
The controversy began shortly after the film’s release when the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) publicly condemned the movie’s title. According to CAN, the use of the word “dirty” alongside “Christmas” was inappropriate and offensive, as Christmas is regarded by Christians as a sacred season symbolizing purity, hope, love, and the birth of Jesus Christ. The association argued that such a title trivializes the spiritual significance of the celebration and could be seen as disrespectful to the Christian faith.
CAN went further to question how the film received approval from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), urging the regulatory body to review the approval process and calling on the filmmakers to issue an apology or reconsider the title. The statement quickly went viral, fueling intense discussions on social media and in public spaces, with opinions sharply divided.
In response to the growing backlash, the NFVCB clarified that the film had passed through its standard review and classification procedures before being approved for release. The board explained that approvals are based on the overall content and narrative of a film, not just its title, and that there was no intention to offend religious beliefs. However, the board acknowledged public concerns and revealed that it had opened discussions with the producers to consider possible adjustments in order to reduce tension and misunderstanding.
Amid the debate, Ini Edo addressed the issue directly. The actress and producer stated that the title of the film was not intended to insult Christianity or undermine the meaning of Christmas. She explained that the title was metaphorical, reflecting the realities and emotional struggles portrayed in the story, rather than a commentary on the Christmas celebration itself. Edo emphasized that she is a Christian and would not knowingly create content meant to demean her faith.
She also appealed to the public to watch the film before forming conclusions, stressing that context matters and that the message of the movie goes beyond its title. According to her, the intention was to tell a relatable story and spark reflection, not controversy.
The reaction from Nigerians has remained mixed. While some support CAN’s position and believe religious symbols and seasons should be handled with greater sensitivity, others argue that the outrage is excessive and that creative expression should not be stifled based solely on a title. For many, the issue has opened up broader conversations about the balance between artistic freedom, cultural values, and religious respect in Nigerian entertainment.
As discussions continue, A Very Dirty Christmas has become more than just a festive film. It has highlighted the delicate intersection of art, faith, and public perception in a deeply religious and culturally diverse society. Whether the title is eventually changed or not, the controversy has already cemented the movie’s place in Nigeria’s ongoing dialogue about creativity and responsibility in the arts.
