Actress and producer Ini Edo on Friday addressed backlash from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding the title of her new film “A Very Dirty Christmas,” insisting it was metaphorical and not intended to disrespect Christian values or the holiday season.
In a public statement, Edo, who identifies as a devout Christian, clarified that the movie received full regulatory clearance from bodies including the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), with no prior objections raised during its promotion.
“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,” Edo said.
She added: “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.”
Edo emphasized her personal faith, stating: “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, she explained, symbolizes contrasts in the story such as “appearance and truth, joy and struggle, virtue and human imperfection,” aimed at encouraging reflection rather than offense.8e7ebd
Noting the surprise over the timing of the criticism, Edo remarked: “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.”
She acknowledged CAN’s concerns and called for dialogue, saying: “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.”
Edo encouraged viewers to see the film firsthand, adding: “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.”
She also announced plans for cinema visits to interact with fans: “I will continue to visit cinemas for meet and greet, so please look out for me at a cinema close to you. I can’t wait to meet you and share this experience together.”
The controversy highlights ongoing debates in Nigeria over artistic expression and religious sensitivities during festive periods.
