ABUJA, Nigeria — The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has requested a formal title modification for the controversial film “A Very Dirty Christmas” following a wave of public backlash and a formal complaint from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director and CEO of the NFVCB, disclosed the development during an interview with journalists on Friday in Abuja. He noted that while the film was initially approved based on its creative merit, the board is acting in the interest of religious harmony.
The family drama, produced by veteran Nollywood actress Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason, was released in cinemas on Dec. 16. It centers on a family reunion that descends into emotional conflict as “dirty” secrets and past traumas resurface.
Religious Sensitivity vs. Creative Freedom
CAN issued a press statement describing the title as “offensive and a mockery” of the Christian faith. The religious body argued that associating a sacred season with the term “dirty” diminishes its spiritual significance and questioned how the title passed regulatory scrutiny.
Husseini explained that the initial approval was granted because the film is a work of “fictional and creative expression” and that the “dirty” element of the title refers to the characters’ secrets, not the faith itself.
“We approved this film based on the content and the context of the production,” Husseini said. “When we were watching the film, it had nothing to do with Christianity or whatever. However, in light of the concerns raised by CAN, and in the spirit of responsiveness and dialogue, NFVCB has formally engaged the producers of the film and requested a modification of the title.”
The CEO emphasized that the board must balance the rights of creators with the sensitivities of the public.
“We have heard their concern, and we have to reason together because there is no way we will not listen to the concern raised by a very important religious body like CAN,” Husseini said. “This is to avoid interpretations that may be considered offensive to Christian sensibilities and to prevent any unnecessary religious tension.”
The request for modification is backed by Section 39(1) of the NFVCB Act, which empowers the Film Censorship Committee to withdraw a film from exhibition for review if deemed necessary in the public interest.
Although Husseini noted that CAN had not sent a formal letter directly to the board, the NFVCB chose to act on the public outcry circulating in the media.
“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity,” Husseini stated. “The board is mindful of the importance of ensuring that films exhibited in the country do not undermine religious harmony or offend deeply held beliefs.”
The film features an ensemble cast including Eucharia Anunobi, Femi Branch, Nancy Isime, and Lateef Adedimeji. As of Friday, the producers had not yet announced the new title for the production.
