Nigerian Government responds to calls for a ban on film featuring Nancy Isime in niqab.

The Nigerian Government, through the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), has made a formal response to the uproar over a film featuring actress Nancy Isime in a niqab.

The controversy erupted after a promotional poster of the yet-to-be-released movie went viral, showing Isime dressed in the traditional Islamic garment during a robbery scene.

The niqab, which covers a Muslim woman’s body and face except for the eyes, has become a focal point of debate. The depiction in the film’s poster has drawn significant criticism from various quarters, including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), which has labeled the film as “satanic” and called for its prohibition.

In their response, the NFVCB clarified that the film is still in production and has not yet undergone the official classification process. They stated, “We have received several complaints regarding the film, particularly about its portrayal of the hijab—a garment symbolizing modesty and religious devotion.

Our investigations confirm that the movie is not yet released and has not been submitted for the required classification.” The NFVCB also revealed that they have engaged with the film’s producers to address the issues raised.

They assured the public of their commitment to safeguarding cultural, religious, and ethnic sensitivities while also upholding the principles of freedom of expression. In their words:

Our role as a classification agency is to ensure that films and videos do not undermine societal values. We strive to balance the preservation of cultural and religious respect with the right to creative freedom,

The agency’s proactive stance underscores their dedication to maintaining a delicate balance between creative freedom and respect for cultural and religious norms in Nigeria’s diverse society.