The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has addressed the growing controversy surrounding a yet-to-be-released movie featuring actress Nancy Isime.

The film's poster, which shows Isime wearing a niqab and hijab in a robbery scene, sparked widespread condemnation from Muslims, including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), who labeled it "satanic" and called for a ban.

In a statement released on Friday, the NFVCB clarified that the film is still in production and has not been submitted for assessment, implying that any calls for a ban are premature.

The Board's response acknowledges the concerns raised while also highlighting the need for a thorough evaluation of the film's content before making any decisions.

NFVCB Statement on call for ban of Nancy Isime’s movie
“The National Film and Video Censors Board, NFVCB, the statutory regulatory agency for film and video works as well as exhibition and distribution in Nigeria, have received complaints about an upcoming Nigerian movie that associated the Hijab, an outfit attributed to Muslim women that symbolizes modesty and religious devotion, with negative moral vices.

“Our check revealed that the movie has not been released, and it has not been submitted for classification as required by law and our mandate.

“However, we have been able to reach the producers of the film and have taken steps to address the concerns raised with the producers.

“We restate that as a classification agency, we will not overlook any movie or video works, including skits that abuse, denigrate, or undermine religious, cultural, and ethnic sensibilities.

“We commit to contributing to positive transformation of the Nigerian society through classification of video and film works whilst balancing the need to preserve freedom of expression within the law, and limit cultural, social and religious harm caused by films.”