Okoh said the use of the word “dirty” in reference to Christmas trivialises the celebration, which he noted symbolises purity, peace, love and redemption.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has faulted the title of a newly released Nollywood film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas,’ describing it as offensive to the Christian faith and urging relevant regulatory authorities to review the production.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and should not be depicted in ways that undermine its spiritual significance.
Okoh said the use of the word “dirty” in reference to Christmas trivialises the celebration, which he noted symbolises purity, peace, love and redemption.
The statement partly read, “The Christian Association of Nigeria is deeply troubled by the title of the movie: ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, which it considers offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
“Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love and redemption.
“Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.”
CAN said that although it recognises the value of creative freedom in filmmaking, such freedom should be exercised responsibly and with due sensitivity, particularly in a religiously plural society like Nigeria.
“CAN therefore calls on the National Film and Video Censors Board to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season.
“CAN also urges industry bodies such as the Actors Guild of Nigeria and other stakeholders in Nollywood to take a clear stand on the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that may offend faith communities,” Okoh stated.
CAN further urged the film’s producer, Ini Edo, to be mindful of the concerns raised and take appropriate steps to address them. The association cautioned that trivialising sacred values, particularly at a time when the nation is grappling with moral and social challenges, could exacerbate divisions and undermine mutual respect.
‘A Very Dirty Christmas,’ produced by Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason, premiered in cinemas nationwide on December 16, 2025.
The film follows a family Christmas reunion that unravels due to unresolved secrets and past traumas, turning what is meant to be a festive celebration into a period of emotional turmoil.