Actor IK Ogbonna and actress Rita Dominic have reacted to criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over the title of Ini Edo’s new film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas.’
CAN had described the title as “offensive and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.
In a statement on Instagram, Ogbonna clarified that the title was not meant to mock or disrespect Christianity, emphasising that he, the producer, and director are all Christians.
He explained that the title draws inspiration from the popular Detty December culture and that the film carries deeper messages about love, forgiveness, and self-worth.
Ogbonna, who played the role Frankie in the movie, appealed for the film to be judged beyond its title.
He wrote, “In light of the recent statement by the Christian Association of Nigeria, I feel it’s important to speak from my place as a cast member in A Very Dirty Christmas, where I played the character Frankie.
“Let me be very clear: the title of this movie was never meant to undermine the Christian faith — especially not our faith. I am a Christian. Many members of the cast are Christians. The producer is a Christian. The director is a Christian. At no point was this project created to mock, diminish, or disrespect the sacredness of Christmas.
“I respect the Christian Association of Nigeria and understand the concerns raised. Conversations like this are important. My humble appeal is that we allow the full message of the film — not just the title — to speak for itself,” he said.
Rita Dominic supported Ogbonna, urging Nigerians to watch the film before drawing conclusions.
She wrote, “Artists have the right to creative expressions. It allows them to convey emotions, build worlds that capture the heart of the audience. A Very Dirty Christmas movie produced by Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason is nothing short of that. I think it’s important to watch the film first before drawing conclusions.
“#AVeryDirtyChristmas is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Go watch with family/friends this holiday, be ready to have a good laugh and be thrilled!
“Congrats once again to the entire cast and crew!”
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has engaged the film’s producers and requested a title modification to prevent offense.
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