Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has come to the defense of his colleague Ini Edo following criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria over her new movie, A Very Dirty Christmas.
In a statement shared on Instagram on Monday, Ogbonna expressed disappointment with CAN, questioning why the group raised concerns only after the film had been released and garnered nationwide attention.
“Honestly, I am deeply disappointed with CAN. You saw the promotions for this title for months and said nothing,” Ogbonna wrote.
He added that the movie had received official approval from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) before production, and the filmmakers acted in good faith.
“Now that the film is out, showing nationwide, and doing well, suddenly there’s an issue with the title. How Christian is it to stay silent all along, then speak only when progress has been made?” he asked.
Ogbonna emphasized that his comments were aimed at promoting fairness and integrity, not stirring conflict.
Ini Edo also addressed the controversy in an emotional video shared on Instagram, appealing to regulators and the public not to withdraw the movie from cinemas.
“Just don’t pull my film, please. Allow people to watch and then decide if it degrades Christians or Christianity. If it does, I will pull it and bear the consequences,” she said.
Edo explained that the title was never intended to demean Christianity, stating that the story focuses on family conflicts and secrets rather than religious issues.
“This film has no dirt in it. It highlights family conflicts, secrets unfolding. It does not ridicule Christians,” she said.
Responding to public concerns, the NFVCB said it had requested the producers to modify the film’s title, noting that public perception is a key element of effective regulation.
The board said it is guided by its enabling act, which allows for withdrawal of a film if de.emed necessary in the public interest.
