Ini Edo has broken her silence following controversy over her latest film, ”A Very Dirty Christmas.”
In a press statement, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) had expressed concern over the film’s title, describing it as “offensive and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.
In her reaction, the actress, in a press statement posted on her Instagram page on Thursday, December 18, said the film was done to spark conversation.
“Art, at its highest form, is meant to provoke thought, spark conversation, and reflect the complexities of human experience. It is in this spirit that A Very Dirty Christmas was created,” she said.
Ini Edo also added that there was no intention to demean, ridicule, or dishonor Christianity or the Christmas season.
“At no time was there any intention to demean, ridicule, or dishonor Christianity, the Christmas season, or the values held dear by millions of Nigerians.” “I am a devout Christian. My faith is deeply personal to me, and it guides my values, my choices, and my life. I would never knowingly create or associate myself with any work that seeks to misrepresent, disrespect, or undermine my religion or the essence of Christmas,” she added.
The thespian explains that the title of the movie is metaphorical, reflecting the story being told and the realities explored. “It is therefore surprising that reservations are only being expressed after the film has been released and duly approved by the appropriate regulatory authority,” she said.
She acknowledged CAN’s concerns and called for dialogue and mutual respect, especially where faith and creative expression intersect.
“I acknowledge the concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and I respect the important role faith plays in our society,” she said.
Ini Edo concluded by urging Nigerians to watch the film and judge for themselves.
“I invite everyone to go to cinemas across Nigeria to watch A Very Dirty Christmas for themselves. See the story, feel the message, and judge it in its proper context,” she said.
A Very Dirty Christmas, produced by Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason, was released in cinemas nationwide on December 16.
CAN, in its statement, had also questioned the film’s approval by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and called on the producers and promoters of the film to reconsider the title and issue a public apology.
In its response to the protest by CAN, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) called on the actress to modify the title.
ALSO READ: 4 Women Produced Nollywood Movies To Look Out For This Detty December