Ini Edo has expressed deep concern over efforts to have her new film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, removed from cinemas after the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described the title as “offensive”.
The movie’s title sparked backlash from CAN, which labelled it “offensive and a mockery” of the Christian faith and urged the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to clarify how such a title was approved, especially during the Christmas season.
Edo had earlier explained that the title is metaphorical, inspired by a chaotic family reunion during what was meant to be a joyful Christmas, and was never intended to belittle Christianity or dishonour God.
The actress and filmmaker also stated that the production complied fully with Nigerian laws, having obtained all required approvals from both the NFVCB and the Nigerian Copyright Commission prior to release.
In a subsequent emotional Instagram address, Edo reaffirmed her Christian beliefs, noting that she was raised by her father to be a committed Christian.
She disclosed that there are now ongoing attempts to stop the film’s nationwide screenings unless the title is altered.
Edo highlighted the heavy personal and financial consequences such a move would bring, stressing that the movie represents her major professional work for the year.
“The title is derived from just a family reunion that was supposed to be a happy Christmas. But the messiness that happened in that revelation was a metaphorical way of telling a story,” she said.
“And I strongly believe that. I have such strong faith. Promoting that film for the time, that’s all I have done this year. It was never to demean Christians, or disrespect Christians, or dishonour God.
“My entire team, we are all Christians. Before we start work, we reference God because that is the premise on which we do everything.
“You have sent a letter. You have asked us to change the title, or they are going to pull the films from the cinemas. They thought we could handle it. But obviously, the composition is not growing every day.”
Appealing directly to CAN and cinema operators, Edo suggested a compromise and described the immense logistical challenge of changing the title at such short notice, explaining that recalling promotional materials from 70 cinemas nationwide would be overwhelming.
“If you pull it, just because of the title, perhaps you should see the film,” she said.
“If it dishonours Christians in any way, I will pull it. I will bear the consequence. If it dishonours God or Christians in any way, I will pull it. I have just come back from two cinemas we went to see. It is almost like what I am dealing with is not enough.
“There are 70 cinemas across Nigeria. We have to start pulling out the printers, all the materials that have circulated the entire country. How do I change the name? I do not want to change it. Just give me some time. Don’t pull the film.”
The NFVCB had earlier disclosed that it has begun engagements with Edo over a possible adjustment to the film’s title.