The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reacted angrily to the title of a new movie by actress Ini Edo, called “A Very Dirty Christmas.”

According to CAN, the title is insulting and shows a lack of respect for the Christian faith.

The group explained that Christmas is a holy period for Christians because it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It stands for things like purity, peace, love and salvation. CAN believes that using the word “-dirty” to describe Christmas takes away its spiritual value and turns a sacred celebration into something cheap and attention-seeking.

In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said it supports creativity and artistic freedom, but stressed that such freedom should be used carefully and responsibly, especially in a country like Nigeria where people practice different religions.

CAN said creative works should promote unity and understanding, not offend people’s deeply held religious beliefs.

The association also expressed concern that a movie with such a title was approved by regulators without proper checks.

Because of this, CAN has asked the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was allowed, especially since the film is being released during the Christmas season.

CAN further called on bodies like the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other Nollywood stakeholders to speak up against the use of religious themes in ways that can offend believers.

In addition, CAN asked the producers and promoters of the movie to change the title, apologise publicly, and make sure religious symbols and sacred periods are treated with respect.

The association also appealed directly to Ini Edo to show understanding and respond to the concerns raised by Christians.

CAN concluded that at a time when Nigeria is already dealing with serious moral and social problems, actions that make light of sacred values only increase division and reduce mutual respect.

Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Lilwin’s movie based on Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has been surrounded by several controversies since production began.

The film, titled Captain Ibrahim Traoré: The Last African Hero, first drew attention after its production was violently disrupted in Kumasi. During filming, a group of masked men riding motorbikes reportedly stormed the set, ordered the crew to stop work and caused damage. Following the incident, the property owner withdrew permission for the location to be used, forcing the production team to suspend filming temporarily.

Amid the disruption, Lilwin claimed he was approached with an offer of $20,000 to abandon the project. According to him, the offer was meant to stop the movie from being completed. He said he rejected the money and decided to continue with the film, insisting that he believed in the project and its message.

The movie also became part of public debate after its scheduled premiere date clashed with a national candlelight vigil organised in honour of the late highlife musician Daddy Lumba. Lilwin described the situation as unfair and expressed concern that the vigil would overshadow the premiere of his movie, a comment that sparked criticism from sections of the public.

Beyond these incidents, the film attracted mixed reactions online, with some critics questioning the approach, production choices and overall direction of the project. Others debated whether the story was told in a way that could appeal to a wider international audience.

After the premiere, Lilwin further accused some Ghanaian media houses of ignoring the film, despite what he described as international interest and recognition. He expressed disappointment over what he saw as a lack of local media support for the project.

In response to the challenges, Lilwin also announced that he was open to selling the broadcast rights of the movie to Ghanaian television stations in order to increase its reach and generate revenue.

Despite the setbacks and criticism, Lilwin has maintained that the film will be completed and distributed, describing the controversies as part of the challenges that come with telling bold and unconventional stories.