"Sacred, Not Dirty": CAN Slams Ini Edo’s New Movie Title, Demands Immediate Scrutiny

​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong disapproval and deep concern over the title of a new film, A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as a direct affront to the sanctity of the Christian faith. In a strongly worded statement released on December 17, 2025, the association’s President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, argued that the title is not only insensitive but also a crude attempt to sensationalize a season held sacred by billions of people worldwide. CAN emphasized that Christmas is a period defined by the birth of Jesus Christ, representing the highest ideals of purity, peace, and redemption—values that are fundamentally contradicted by the word “dirty.”

​The association raised serious questions regarding the professional and regulatory oversight of the Nigerian film industry, specifically calling on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how such a title was cleared for public exhibition. Archbishop Okoh noted that while the association respects the rights of filmmakers to creative freedom and artistic expression, such liberty must be exercised with a high sense of responsibility, particularly in a religiously diverse nation like Nigeria. The statement suggested that the failure to scrutinize such provocative titles risks deepening social divisions and eroding the mutual respect that holds the country’s moral fabric together.

​Directing its appeal to the industry at large, CAN urged the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other key stakeholders in Nollywood to take a firm stand against the trivialization of religious symbols and themes. The association specifically called out the film’s producer, Ini Edo, urging her to demonstrate sensitivity toward the faith community by reconsidering the title and issuing a formal apology. CAN maintained that at a time when Nigeria is grappling with various moral and social challenges, the media and entertainment industry should focus on building unity and understanding rather than provoking faith-based communities for the sake of marketing.

​The statement concluded with a firm demand for the producers and promoters to take deliberate steps to restore the dignity of the sacred season in their branding. While affirming its commitment to peaceful engagement, the Christian Association of Nigeria made it clear that it would continue to speak out against any public content that undermines or mocks the Christian faith. The association remains hopeful that the film’s creators will act swiftly to address these concerns and uphold the standards of decency expected in a sensitive society.

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