“Three Working Days” Faces Backlash Over Islamic Elements

The unreleased Nigerian film “Three Working Days” is already stirring controversy, with a prominent Muslim rights group calling for its ban based solely on promotional images shared on social media.

The film, still in production and directed by Jesse Ossai, came under fire after its star, Nancy Isime, posted behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram. Some images depict actresses wearing niqabs while holding guns, sparking outrage among Muslim advocacy groups.

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) swiftly condemned the film Thursday, urging the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to prevent its release.

“This film shows women in purdah brandishing dangerous weapons,” said Ishaq Akintola, MURIC’s executive director, in a statement. “It is Islamophobia taken to the highest level.”

The promotional materials also feature Isime in a niqab alongside fellow actors Femi Adebayo, Deyemi Okanlawon, Uzor Arukwe and Mike Afolarin in separate images, fitted in their character costume and makeup.

Responding to the growing controversy, the NFVCB confirmed it has received complaints about the film’s portrayal of the niqab. However, the regulatory body noted that “Three Working Days” has not yet been submitted for classification, a legal requirement before any film’s release in Nigeria.

“We have been able to reach the producers of the film and have taken steps to address the concerns raised,” the NFVCB stated.

With the film still in production, its plot remains hidden, and no release date has been set.

As of press time, neither Isime nor the film’s producers have publicly commented on the controversy.