The National Film and Video Censors Board initially approved the title of Nollywood film *A Very Dirty Christmas*, produced by actress Ini Edo. Dr Shaibu Husseini, the board’s Executive Director, explained the decision on Tuesday. He described the title as metaphorical, referring to human conduct, moral contradictions, or social realities during festivities, not as an insult to the sacred Christian event.
Husseini stressed that the film contains no scenes, dialogue, or imagery ridiculing Christian worship or theology. The board focused on context and intent during review, in line with regulatory principles.
Christian groups, including the Christian Association of Nigeria, criticised the title as offensive. They argued it desecrates Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, and demanded an apology from producers along with a review of the approval.
In response to the concerns, the NFVCB engaged the producers and requested a title modification or stylisation to avoid misunderstandings and religious tension. Producers are cooperating positively, and such changes are not uncommon, as seen in past international cases.
Producers defended the title as symbolic of moral conflicts and family tensions in the storyline, not a commentary on Christianity.
The film continues screening in cinemas nationwide. This incident highlights sensitivities around creative expression during religious seasons, with regulators balancing artistic freedom and public sentiment.<
