Nollywood actress and film producer Ini Edo has responded to concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over the title of her movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, insisting it was never intended to disrespect Christianity or the Christmas season.
In a detailed statement, Ini Edo explained that the film’s title was chosen as a metaphor, designed to reflect the themes explored in the story rather than demean religious values. She said the project was created to encourage reflection and conversation around human realities often revealed during the festive season.
The actress noted that all statutory requirements were met before the film’s release, including approvals from relevant regulatory bodies such as the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).
Describing herself as a devout Christian, Ini Edo stressed that her faith plays a central role in her personal life and professional decisions, adding that she would never knowingly associate with content that undermines Christianity or the essence of Christmas.
According to her, the title symbolises the contrast often experienced during the festive period — between joy and struggle, appearance and truth, and virtue and human imperfection. She explained that such contrasts are a longstanding storytelling tool meant to provoke thought, not cause offence.
The producer also expressed surprise that objections were raised only after the film’s release, noting that the movie had been publicly promoted across multiple platforms with its title clearly displayed, without earlier concerns from critics.
While acknowledging CAN’s position, Ini Edo said she respects the role of faith in Nigerian society and emphasised the need for dialogue and mutual understanding where religion and creative expression intersect.
She further invited members of the public to watch the film and assess its message firsthand, announcing plans to visit cinemas nationwide for meet-and-greet sessions with viewers.
A Very Dirty Christmas is currently showing in cinemas across Nigeria.
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