CAN Condemns Ini Edo’s Christmas Movie Title, Says It Disrespects Christian Faith
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticised Nollywood actress and producer Ini Edo over the title of her newly released Christmas-themed movie, “A Very Dirty Christmas.” The Christian body described the title as offensive, insensitive, and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association said the movie title crosses a sensitive religious line, especially during the Christmas season, which Christians around the world regard as sacred.
According to CAN, Christmas is a holy celebration that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love, and redemption. The association argued that attaching the word “dirty” to Christmas undermines its spiritual meaning and portrays a sacred religious event in a crude and sensational way.
CAN stated that while Nigeria supports creativity and freedom of expression, such freedom must be exercised with responsibility and cultural sensitivity, especially in a country with deep religious diversity. The group warned that careless use of religious symbols in entertainment could fuel unnecessary tension and misunderstanding.
The statement partly read that creativity should unite people rather than offend deeply held beliefs. CAN emphasized that content creators must be mindful of the values and emotions of faith communities when producing movies, especially during religious seasons like Christmas.
Beyond criticizing the movie title, CAN also questioned how the film passed regulatory approval without objections. The association called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition during a period known for heightened religious sensitivity.
CAN further urged Nollywood industry bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other stakeholders, to take a firm stand on how religious themes and sacred symbols are portrayed in films. The association said the industry has a responsibility to promote unity, respect, and social harmony rather than provoke division.
In a direct appeal to the producers of the movie, CAN called for a public apology to Christians and requested a review or change of the movie title. The association specifically urged Ini Edo, as the producer, to show sensitivity to the concerns raised by the Christian community.
CAN warned that ignoring such concerns could worsen existing social and religious tensions in the country. The association stressed that Nigeria is already facing serious moral and social challenges, and actions that trivialize sacred values only deepen divisions and weaken mutual respect among citizens.
As of the time of this report, Ini Edo has not issued an official response to CAN’s statement.
