Ini Edo Responds to CAN’s Objection Over “A Very Dirty Christmas” Title

Following public criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over the title of the new film A Very Dirty Christmas, the film’s producer and lead cast member, Ini Edo, has released a detailed response addressing the concerns raised.

CAN, in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the film title as insensitive, especially during the Christmas season. While acknowledging the importance of creative freedom, the association stressed that artistic expression must be exercised with responsibility in a religiously diverse country like Nigeria.

CAN called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was approved and urged Nollywood industry bodies to take a firm position on the use of religious themes. The association also asked the film’s producers to reconsider the title, issue a public apology, and treat sacred symbols and seasons with dignity.

In her response, Ini Edo emphasized that the film was created with no intention to ridicule or disrespect Christianity, the Christmas season, or the values held by millions of Nigerians. She explained that all legal and regulatory requirements were fully met before the film’s release, including approvals from the NFVCB and the Nigerian Copyright Commission. According to her, the project followed due process and complied with all industry standards.

Ini Edo also spoke from a personal standpoint, stating clearly that she is a devout Christian whose faith plays a central role in her life and decision-making. She noted that she would never knowingly associate herself with any work that undermines her religion or the true meaning of Christmas. This, she said, made the claims of deliberate disrespect particularly painful and surprising.

Addressing the controversy around the title, Ini Edo explained that A Very Dirty Christmas is metaphorical and rooted in storytelling tradition. She described the film as an exploration of contrast, showing how the Christmas season can reveal both joy and struggle, virtue and human imperfection. In her words, the intention was to provoke reflection and honest conversation, not to offend religious sensibilities.

She further pointed out that the film had been publicly promoted for some time, with its title openly displayed across multiple platforms, without objections being raised until after its release. Ini Edo suggested that earlier engagement could have allowed for dialogue and clarity before the situation escalated.

While maintaining her position, Ini Edo acknowledged CAN’s concerns and expressed respect for the role faith plays in Nigerian society. She called for dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect, especially where faith, culture, and creative expression intersect.

Concluding her statement, Ini Edo invited Nigerians to watch the film and judge it within its proper context. She encouraged audiences to engage with the story firsthand and reaffirmed her commitment to meeting viewers during cinema tours and interactions.