Actor IK Ogbonna has spoken out against alleged unfair practices in Nigeria’s cinema industry, claiming that Ini Edo’s film, “A Very Dirty Christmas”, which he starred in, has been subjected to manipulative tactics by cinema houses.
In an Instagram post, Ogbonna stated that showtimes have been shifted, slots replaced, and even air conditioning turned off in halls showing the film, making it challenging for producers to recover their investments.
He condemned these actions, urging cinema houses and producers involved in these tactics to cease, warning that they are hurting the industry.
He wrote, “Politics in Nigeria’s cinema has to stop. This message is for the cinema houses directly and also for the producers who are influencing these politics. We’ve poured our heart, soul, and countless hours into bringing ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ to the big screen, and it’s unacceptable that we’ve encountered these manipulative tactics.
“Showtimes have been shifted countless times, our slots replaced, and even the air conditioning turned off in halls showing our film. Celebrities doing meet-and-greets have had negative experiences. And let’s not forget the attendees behind the counter who manipulate and influence customers, steering them away from certain films. This kind of bias is unacceptable.
“To the other producers involved in these tactics: you know yourselves. We won’t name names, but it’s time to stop. You’re part of this industry, and by playing these games, you’re hurting it. The politics is as clear as day and night. Stop now so we can have a fair and thriving cinema environment.
“Producers invest heavily and simply want a fair chance to share their work and recover their investments. Let’s put an end to these dirty and ridiculous practices in Nigerian cinema. #FairCinema AVeryDirtyChristmas”.
Ogbonna had also defended the creative rights of artists, arguing that external bodies should not dictate what they can or cannot do.
He cited the existence of the Film Censors Board, which reviews and approves films before release, as an example of the existing regulatory framework.
The actor’s comments come in the wake of threats from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) against Ini Edo over the movie title, which Ogbonna deemed unfair, particularly since the film has been performing well nationwide.
Ogbonna questioned the timing of CAN’s reaction, stating that their silence during the film’s promotional phase was notable.
