The Christian Association of Nigeria, has criticised the title of a new movie, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, produced by Nollywood actress Ini Edo.
The Christian body, described the title as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
The association also called for the film’s title to be reviewed by relevant regulatory authorities.
This was contained in a statement signed by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday.
He said, Christmas is a sacred period that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolises purity, peace, love and redemption.
He argued that associating the celebration with the word “dirty” undermines its spiritual significance and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria is deeply troubled by the title of the movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, which we consider offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith,” Okoh said.
“Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love and redemption. Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and trivialises a deeply revered religious observance.”
While acknowledging the importance of creative freedom and artistic expression, CAN stressed that such freedoms must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, particularly in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria.
“Creativity should foster understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs,” the statement added.
“CAN calls on the National Film and Video Censors Board to explain how such a title was approved for public exhibition, especially during the Christmas season,” Okoh said.
CAN specifically called on the film’s producer, Ini Edo, to demonstrate sensitivity and address the concerns raised by Christians across the country.
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