Ini Edo Appeals for Calm as ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ Sparks Controversy
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ini Edo has made a passionate appeal to regulators and the public amid growing controversy surrounding her new movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, insisting the film does not mock or disrespect Christianity.
In an emotional video shared on her Instagram page, the actress urged critics to watch the film before passing judgment, pledging to withdraw it herself if it is found to be offensive.
“Just don’t pull my film, please. Just allow people to watch. Watch the film and come back and say that this film degrades Christians or degrades Christianity. Then I will pull it,” Edo said.
“If it dishonours God or Christians in any way, I will pull it and bear the consequences.”
The backlash followed concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), which described the film’s title as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith. While the movie itself has not been widely viewed, the title alone has triggered strong reactions.
Responding to the criticism, Edo clarified that the title was never intended to demean Christianity. According to her, the film focuses on family conflicts and hidden secrets, not religious satire or ridicule.
“We chose A Very Dirty Christmas. It was never to demean Christians or disrespect Christendom or dishonour God,” she explained.
“This film has no dirt in it. It highlights family conflicts, secrets unfolding. It does not ridicule Christians.”
She also expressed concern over the financial implications of a ban, revealing that the project involved investors and had already been distributed to over 70 cinemas nationwide, alongside extensive media promotions.
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has since weighed in, asking the producers to modify the title in response to public concerns.
“However, the Board recognises that public perception and reception are critical elements of effective regulation,” the NFVCB said in a statement, confirming that it requested a title change rather than an outright ban.
Edo, a self-professed devout Christian, apologized to anyone offended by the title and confirmed her willingness to comply.
“Christians are not the people I want a problem with because I’m one,” she said.
“I would never sit in a gathering where Christians are ridiculed.”
Opinion: Dialogue Over Censorship Is the Real Win
The A Very Dirty Christmas debate highlights a familiar tension between creative expression and public sensitivity, especially in a deeply religious society like Nigeria. While concerns from faith groups deserve respect, judging a film solely by its title risks shutting down meaningful storytelling before it even begins.
Ini Edo’s response stands out not just for its emotion, but for its accountability. Her willingness to pull the film if it genuinely offends, and to even change the title to maintain peace, shows a rare balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility.
This situation also raises a bigger question: should art always be pre-judged, or should audiences be trusted to interpret stories for themselves? In an industry striving for growth and global relevance, dialogue, not censorship, remains the healthiest path forward.
For now, Edo’s plea is simple and fair — let the film be watched, then let the verdict follow.
