Dare Babalola
Nollywood actress and producer Ini Edo has reacted to the criticism of her film, “A Very Dirty Christmas,” stating that she had no intention to demean or ridicule Christianity, saying she’s a proud Christian herself.
Earlier, CAN condemned the film in a statement signed by its president, Daniel Okoh, an archbishop, arguing that the title trivialised the spiritual significance of Christmas.
The NFVCB came under fire for approving the movie, drawing sharp criticism. The board later acknowledged the backlash and promised to address concerns, but Ini Edo remained defiant, defending her film in a statement on social media Thursday night.
She insisted that the production complied fully with all legal and regulatory requirements before its release.
The 43-year-old actress stated that she is a practising Christian and would never intentionally produce content that undermines or disrespects Christianity.
The actress said, “Prior to the release of this film, all legal and regulatory requirements governing motion pictures in Nigeria were fully complied with, including securing the appropriate approval from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), amongst others. At no time was there any intention to demean, ridicule, or dishonour Christianity, the Christmas season, or the values held dear by millions of Nigerians.
“I am a devout Christian. My faith is deeply personal to me, and it guides my values, my choices, and my life. I would never knowingly create or associate myself with any work that seeks to misrepresent, disrespect, or undermine my religion or the essence of Christmas.”
Furthermore, Edo said the film’s title was not intended to ridicule or dishonour Christianity, explaining that storytelling often relied on contrast to provoke reflection rather than to cause offence.
She added that engaging with the film at an earlier stage would have created room for constructive dialogue and fostered mutual understanding long before now.
“The title of the film is metaphorical, reflecting the story being told and the realities explored within it. Christmas, while sacred, is also a season that often reveals the contrast between appearance and truth, joy and struggle, virtue and human imperfection.
“It is also important to note that we have since been publicly promoting this film, with its title clearly visible across multiple media platforms. During this entire period, no concerns or objections were raised. It is therefore surprising that reservations are only being expressed after the film has been released and duly approved by the appropriate regulatory authority,” she added.
The actress said she acknowledged the concerns raised by CAN and respected the vital role faith plays in society.
