The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has responded to public concerns and calls for action regarding a yet-to-be-released film starring actress Nancy Isime, which has sparked controversy due to its portrayal of characters in niqabs, wielding weapons.
News About Nigeria reported that the film, still in production, drew criticism, particularly from the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), which argued that it portrays Muslim women negatively.
The controversy began when Nancy Isime shared images from the film showing her wearing a niqab and holding a rifle.
The images quickly spread on social media, leading to a backlash from some viewers who felt that the portrayal was disrespectful and potentially harmful to the Muslim community.
MURIC, represented by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, issued a strong statement condemning the film.
Akintola described the portrayal as “satanic, repugnant, and provocative,” alleging that it fosters Islamophobia and could incite public animosity towards Muslim women.
He expressed concern that the film contributes to a broader negative narrative against hijab and niqab, traditional garments worn by some Muslim women, and called for the NFVCB to ban the film to prevent further dissemination of what he described as harmful stereotypes.
In response, the NFVCB clarified that the film has not yet been submitted for classification, a required step before its release.
The board stated that it has reached out to the filmmakers to address the concerns raised and is monitoring the situation closely.
The NFVCB said that it will ensure that films and video content do not abuse, denigrate, or undermine religious, cultural, and ethnic sensibilities.
The NFVCB further assured that while it supports creative freedom, it also must prevent content that could cause social, cultural, or religious harm.
The board is tasked with balancing the preservation of freedom of expression with the need to protect societal values and harmony.
The film’s producers have been asked to take into account the public’s concerns, and the NFVCB will continue to engage with them to ensure that the final product respects the sensitivities of all communities involved.
