The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly objected to the title of a Nollywood movie, “A Very Dirty Christmas”, describing it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
In a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said Christmas is a sacred season marking the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolising purity, peace, love, and redemption.
Associating such a holy celebration with the word “dirty,” the association argued, diminishes its spiritual significance and trivialises a solemn religious observance.
While acknowledging the importance of creative freedom and artistic expression, CAN stressed that such freedoms must be exercised responsibly, especially in Nigeria’s religiously diverse society.
“Creativity should build understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs,” Okoh said.
Call for Accountability and Sensitivity
CAN expressed concern that the film’s title passed through regulatory and professional channels without sufficient scrutiny.
It called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition during the Christmas season.
The association also urged industry bodies such as the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood stakeholders to take a firm position on the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that may offend faith communities.
CAN appealed directly to the film’s producer, Ini Edo, to reconsider the title, issue a public apology, and ensure that religious symbols and sacred seasons are treated with dignity.
“At a time when the nation is already grappling with serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values only deepen division and erode mutual respect,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful engagement, CAN said it would continue to speak out whenever the dignity of the Christian faith is undermined in the public space.
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