By ‘Busayo Ogunmade Brand Strategist | Media & Communications Expert
In the gritty and gripping world of To Kill a Monkey, Kemi Adetiba delivers more than just entertainment. Beneath the intense drama and suspense lies a masterclass on leadership, loyalty, ambition, and brand identity—serving as a mirror for entrepreneurs, executives, and creatives navigating today’s complex business landscape.
As the storyline follows the meteoric rise of Efemini under the wings of his powerful mentor, Oboz, it paints a hauntingly familiar picture: ambition without accountability, growth without guidance, and ultimately, a brand built on fragile foundations. The series is a rich source of wisdom for any individual or brand determined to grow not just fast, but well.
1. Vision Is Nothing Without Discipline
Efemini starts with a dream and finds himself catapulted into success through the dangerous patronage of Oboz, a high-ranking, underworld kingpin. With no clear roadmap or moral compass, Efemini’s rise feels impressive—but hollow.
Lesson: In business and personal branding, ambition must be anchored to values. Many start-ups and creatives often pursue rapid visibility and funding without a clear structure or ethical guide. The result? A crash that’s as spectacular as the climb.
2. Mentorship Is a Double-Edged Sword
Oboz takes Efemini under his wing, offering him protection, resources, and power. But the mentor-protégé relationship becomes murky. When power dynamics shift and egos inflate, loyalty is replaced by betrayal.
Lesson: Mentors are powerful launchpads, but every mentee must define their own identity. A brand should never lose its voice in trying to mirror another. Know when guidance ends and self-leadership begins.
3. Loyalty Builds Brands; Betrayal Breaks Them
Efemini’s ascent is littered with betrayals—from friends, from allies, and eventually, from himself. The same people who clapped when he rose quickly become silent—or complicit—when he falls.
Lesson: In both life and business, relationships are currency. Trust is harder to build than momentum, but it’s far more valuable. Build slowly if it means building credibly.
4. Culture Is a Competitive Advantage
Adetiba doesn’t just tell a Nigerian story—she embeds Nigeria into the storytelling. From the cadence of the language to the social hierarchies, every detail resonates with authenticity.
Lesson: Your brand voice should speak the language of your people. Cultural clarity equals market loyalty. Global brands looking to enter African markets should take note: local insight builds global success.
5. Resilience Is the Real Power
When the power shifts and the glory fades, few characters remain standing. Inspector Ogunlesi and Nosa represent the few who cling to integrity amidst chaos. Their struggle is slower, harder—but more sustainable.
Lesson: Speed isn’t the only metric for success. In life and business, sustainable impact comes from character, consistency, and clear purpose—not from flashy moves.
Bonus Insight: The Crisis of Rapid Growth
Many brands today mirror Efemini—rising fast on hype, exposure, or a mentor’s network, but failing to build strong internal systems. From Theranos to Fyre Festival, the business world is filled with cautionary tales of charisma without content.
Lesson: Build like you’ll last. Whether you’re a fintech, fashion brand, or digital media house, process is more powerful than PR.
Conclusion: Kill the Monkey Before It Kills You
The title To Kill a Monkey may seem metaphorical—but in business, it’s a call to action. The “monkey” could be ego, shortcuts, toxic leadership, or the desire for overnight fame. Whatever it is, it must be killed before it consumes your brand, your business, and your legacy.
As Kemi Adetiba masterfully reminds us, there’s always a cost to building without wisdom. Let Efemini and Oboz’s story serve not just as a dramatic tale, but as a playbook of what to do—and what not to do—when navigating success.
(c) TALKBRAND AFRICA