NFVCB Takes Action Against Same-Sex Film, Warns of Legal Consequences

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) wants to stop the media press call and premiere of Living in Colours. They say the film has explicit sexual content and promotes same-sex relationships.

On Wednesday, the Board released a statement. They mentioned they noticed promotional materials, like a poster and trailer, for a media event and premiere happening this weekend at a cinema in Lagos.

The NFVCB said early investigations show the film has not been submitted for classification and approval by the agency.

About Living in Colours

Living in Colours is set to be released on YouTube on 30 August by Prism House Studio. The film was produced by Manuel Ruben and features upcoming actors like Solomon James, Gabby John, Kris Shaddy, Khalid Omokalemoh, Mirable Samuel, Temitope Alex, Joshua Eronini, Daniel Nsude, and Emery Ogolo.

Tega Idogho directed the film, and Udo Casciavit wrote the screenplay.

NFVCB Findings

The Board said they reviewed the circulating trailer and found what they call “explicit pornography” and content that promotes same-sex relationships. They declared that any public showing or promotion of the film is unlawful.

“Preliminary investigations and reports confirm that the trailer for this film depicts explicit pornography and actively promotes same-sex relationships,” the Board said.

The NFVCB stated they are working with federal and state security agencies to find the organizers and stop the press event and premiere from happening.
They also reached out to the management of the venue and warned them against hosting the film.

The Board said any cinema or exhibition center that shows an unclassified film could face penalties, including possible closure and loss of their operating license.

Legal Framework

The NFVCB is the federal agency that classifies and regulates films and videos shown or distributed in Nigeria. The current rules require films to be classified before they can be shown to the public or distributed. The guidelines say showing or distributing unapproved films, trailers, and promotional materials is against the rules.

The Board has said this rule applies to films released on digital platforms too. In April 2026, NFVCB Director-General Shaibu Husseini reminded everyone that films launched on platforms like YouTube must be submitted for classification and registration before they are released.

The agency’s records show the extent of the regulatory process. Between January and April 2026, the NFVCB classified 304 films, compared to 267 during the same period in 2025. Of the 304 films classified in those months, 157 got a 15 rating while 103 received an 18 rating.

The Board’s list of approved films also has a notice stating that showing unapproved films is an offense under the NFVCB Act.

Same-Sex Content Concerns

The NFVCB also mentioned the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act in its warning about Living in Colours. This law from 2013 bans same-sex marriage and sets penalties for certain actions related to it. The Board links the film’s alleged promotion of same-sex relationships to this law, which might be challenged in court.

The NFVCB said they are starting legal action against the production company and individuals involved with making and promoting the film.
They urged filmmakers, cinema operators, distributors, and media platforms to follow Nigeria’s film classification and licensing rules.

The Board said their actions aim to enforce Nigeria’s film regulations and protect what they call the country’s cultural and constitutional values.