The film tells the story of five young flatmates living in Lagos as they navigate their lives and identities as queer individuals.
In a statement issued by the NFVCB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Shuaib Husseini, the Board raised concerns over the planned premiere, stating that the film had not been submitted for vetting or received the required classification.
Husseini said he had not watched the full movie but claimed that its trailer contained what he described as “explicit pornography” and the promotion of same-sex relationships.
According to the NFVCB chief executive, the absence of an official classification means the film cannot legally be publicly exhibited or promoted under the country’s applicable film and video regulatory framework.
Board begins action against filmmakers
Husseini said the Board had commenced immediate regulatory measures against the filmmakers, the movie itself and the exhibition centre where the premiere was scheduled to take place.
He also cautioned filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors against screening or promoting productions that have not obtained the necessary licence and classification from the NFVCB.
The Board's position adds another layer to the controversy surrounding Living in Colors, particularly because of its subject matter and portrayal of queer characters in Lagos.
NFVCB warns exhibitors
The chief executive reiterated that films intended for public exhibition in Nigeria are subject to the classification process administered by the NFVCB.
He warned that exhibitors who proceed with screenings without the required approval could face regulatory consequences.
The development comes amid continuing debates around the regulation of film content in Nigeria, with the NFVCB maintaining that filmmakers must comply with the country’s existing classification and exhibition requirements.
For the producers of Living in Colors, the Board’s announcement now puts the planned public premiere under significant regulatory pressure as authorities move to determine whether further action should be taken.