Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ini Edo has urged regulators and the public to allow her latest movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, to continue screening in cinemas. She emphasized that the film does not mock Christianity and encouraged critics to watch it before forming opinions.
In a heartfelt Instagram video shared Sunday night, Edo clarified that the controversy revolves around the movie’s title rather than its content and appealed for it to remain accessible to viewers.
“Please don’t pull my film. Let people see it first. Watch it and then decide if it disrespects Christians or Christianity. If it does, I will remove it myself,” she said.
Edo explained that the title was intended to reflect family conflicts and hidden secrets coming to light, not to insult the Christian faith. “We named it A Very Dirty Christmas to highlight family drama. There’s no literal ‘dirt’ in the story, and it does not ridicule Christians or dishonour God,” she added.
She also noted the financial stakes, mentioning that the movie is currently showing in over 70 cinemas nationwide and represents a significant investment in production, marketing, and distribution.
Authorities have reportedly requested a title change to avoid further controversy. Edo expressed her willingness to consider the adjustment while still asking for the film to remain in theaters.
“They’ve asked us to change the title or risk having the movie pulled. I will try to change it, but please don’t remove it. I respect Christians and am one myself,” she said.
Edo apologized to anyone who may have been offended, stressing that there was no ill intent. “A Very Dirty Christmas was never meant to disrespect Christians or Christianity. If it has caused any hurt, I sincerely apologise,” she added.
Her statement comes after the Christian Association of Nigeria raised concerns about the film’s title.