CAN Slams Ini Edo’s ‘Very Dirty Christmas’ Movie, Demands Apology

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has criticised the title of a new Nollywood movie, “A Very Dirty Christmas”, labelling it as “offensive and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.

CAN, in a press statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed disappointment that such a title could be approved for public exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season.

The apex Christian body called for immediate review and public apology from the makers of the movie.

CAN stressed that the movie’s title fundamentally clashes with the essence of the celebration.

“Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love and redemption.

“Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational,” CAN said.

“A Very Dirty Christmas” was released in cinemas nationwide on December 16, 2025. It is a Nigerian drama film directed by Akay Mason, and produced by Ini Edo.

The movie, which boasts impressive cast, including, Eucharia Anunobi Ekwu, Elvina Ibru, and Wunmi Toriola, centres on a Christmas family reunion disrupted by unresolved secrets and past trauma, turning the festive season into emotional turmoil.

“CAN respects creative freedom and artistic expression, but such freedom must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, especially in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria.

“Creativity should build understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs,” the Christian body stated.

The association also raised concerns over the oversight by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

“The Association is concerned that a film bearing such a title passed through regulatory and professional channels without adequate scrutiny.

“CAN therefore calls on the NFVCB to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition,” it said.

It further urged industry stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), to take a definitive position on the respectful use of religious themes and appealed to the film’s producer, Ini Edo, to address the discontent.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria therefore calls on the producers and promoters of the film to reconsider the title, issue a public apology, and take deliberate steps to ensure that religious symbols and sacred seasons are treated with the dignity they deserve.

“In this regard, CAN calls on the producer, Ini Edo, to show sensitivity and address the concerns raised by the Christian community.

“At a time when the nation is already facing serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values only deepen division and erode mutual respect,” CAN stated.