IK Ogbonna backs Ini Edo amid CAN dispute

Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna backs Ini Edo over her movie ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, criticising CAN for raising title concerns after the film’s release

Nollywood actor Ik Ogbonna has publicly backed fellow actress Ini Edo amid her ongoing dispute with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over her movie A Very Dirty Christmas.

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CAN had previously condemned the title of Ini Edo’s film, describing it as insensitive and offensive to the Christian faith, particularly during the festive season.

The association had also threatened to have the movie taken down.

Ini Edo responded to CAN’s concerns in a press statement and a viral livestream video, explaining that the title was not intended to offend, had met all regulatory requirements, and that she would have considered a change if the potential issue had been known earlier.

Reacting on Instagram, IK Ogbonna expressed disappointment with CAN, emphasising that the movie’s title had been approved by the Censors Board, and questioning why concerns were only raised after the film’s release.

He wrote: “TBH! I am deeply disappointed with CAN.

You saw the promotions for this title for months and said nothing.

The movie title was officially approved by the Censors Board, and we moved forward 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? This isn’t about conflict – it’s about fairness, consistency, and integrity.”

Also read: CAN Condemns Nollywood Film “A Very Dirty Christmas”

IK Ogbonna’s statement highlights the broader tension between creative freedom in Nollywood and the sensitivities of religious organisations, as the industry continues to navigate regulatory and cultural challenges.