Nollywood's "To Kill a Monkey" debuts on Netflix, showcasing Lagos' gritty reality

Kemi Adetiba’s “To Kill a Monkey” has made a bold entrance on Netflix, much like the chaotic traffic of Lagos. This Nigerian crime thriller, released on July 18, 2025, showcases Adetiba’s skill in creating characters that are as vivid as they are complex. William Benson’s Efemini, a desperate father turned cybercriminal, carries the weight of his past mistakes. Bucci Franklin’s Oboz is a charismatic yet deceitful figure, while Bimbo Akintola’s Inspector Motunrayo brings a stormy presence to the screen. Stella Damasus adds a sharp edge to the tension, and Chidi Mokeme’s Teacher looms over the story like an inescapable shadow. Lilian Afegbai’s character, a vibrant Lagos chick, also plays a significant role, rising to the top of Oboz’s empire. The cast is rounded out by slimy politicians and CEOs, who are the puppeteers of Nigeria’s power games.

Lagos itself is a central character in the series, depicted with bold strokes that capture its vibrant energy. The city’s markets, corporate towers, and endless hum of activity are all brought to life, making Lagos feel like the heart of the story. However, the series sometimes strays from reality, with scenes that feel more like a scriptwriter’s fantasy than a gritty crime drama. For example, gunfire erupts on a Lagos street, but pedestrians continue to stroll by as if nothing is happening. This disconnect from reality is jarring and undermines the show’s promise of authenticity. Additionally, continuity errors and a rushed ending detract from the overall quality of the series. Teacher’s death, in particular, deserves a more thoughtful conclusion, as his character is a titan in the story and his exit feels rushed.

The series shines brightest when it delves into Nigeria’s complex social issues. Politicians twist laws for their own gain, CEOs wield power with briefcases of cash, and corruption is as thick as oil in the Delta. Power is not earned in this world; it is snatched, bartered, or stolen outright. The series holds a cracked mirror to society, reflecting the harsh realities of Nigeria. Fashion and special effects add a layer of polish to the story, but the justice system is portrayed in a way that feels unrealistic. Efemini’s courtroom reckoning is wrapped up too neatly, which feels alien to the Nigerian experience. In reality, cases can drag on for decades, or the guilty can simply pay their way out of trouble. The series also explores the theme of wealth and its corrupting influence, with Efemini’s cash luring loyalty from his family until it doesn’t. Betrayal hits him from all sides, highlighting the lousy odds of trust in Nigeria.

Despite its flaws, “To Kill a Monkey” is a significant leap for Nollywood. It blends sharp characters with a story that bites, and Lagos pulses through every frame. The societal jabs hit home, and while Teacher’s rushed exit stings and justice feels like a pipe dream, Adetiba’s vision keeps you hooked. The series is a must-watch for its vivid portrayal of Lagos and its unflinching look at the city’s complexities. Watch it, laugh at the absurdities, and nod at the truths, because in Lagos, the monkey business never stops.