NFVCB Asks Ini Edo to Change Title of ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ After CAN Backlash

NFVCB Asks Ini Edo to Change Title of ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ After CAN Backlash

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has formally asked Nollywood actress and producer Ini Edo to modify the title of her newly released film, “A Very Dirty Christmas,” following public backlash and concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

The family drama, which hit cinemas on December 16, sparked controversy after CAN described the title as “offensive and a mockery” of the Christian faith. In a statement, the Christian body argued that associating the sacred Christmas season with the word “dirty” diminishes its spiritual significance and could offend Christian sensibilities.

CAN called on the film’s producers and promoters to reconsider the title and issue a public apology. The association also questioned how the title passed through the regulatory scrutiny of the NFVCB, Nigeria’s statutory body responsible for film classification and approval.

Responding to the controversy, Dr Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director and CEO of the NFVCB, said the board recognises that public perception and reception are crucial elements of effective regulation. He disclosed that the board had engaged the producers and requested a title modification to prevent misinterpretation and religious tension.

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According to Husseini, the film was approved and classified based on its content and context, describing it as a work of fictional and creative expression. He stressed that the approval was not intended to disparage or trivialise the Christian faith or the significance of Christmas.

“We have heard their concern, and we have to reason together because there is no way we will not listen to a very important religious body like CAN,” Husseini said.

“The film, as approved, has nothing to do with Christianity. However, in light of the concerns raised, and in the spirit of dialogue, the NFVCB has requested a modification of the title to avoid interpretations that may be considered offensive.”

He noted that the decision aligns with Section 39(1) of the NFVCB Act, which empowers the board to order the withdrawal of a film from exhibition for further review when deemed necessary in the public interest.

Although Husseini said there was no formal communication from CAN to the board, he explained that the NFVCB acted proactively in response to issues already circulating in the media space. He reassured Nigerians that religious sensitivity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence remain central to the board’s mandate.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. The NFVCB is committed to ensuring that films exhibited in the country do not undermine religious harmony while still supporting responsible creativity and artistic expression,” he added.

‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, directed by Akay Mason, tells the story of a family Christmas reunion that spirals into emotional turmoil as long-buried secrets and past traumas resurface, turning what should be a joyful celebration into a tense holiday experience.

The film features an ensemble cast including Eucharia Anunobi, Femi Branch, IK Ogbonna, Lateef Adedimeji, Nancy Isime, Wumi Toriola, and others.

NFVCB Asks Ini Edo to Change Title of ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ After CAN Backlash

(NAN)