To Kill a Monkey Netflix Series – Nigerian shows
Netflix has steadily become the global stage for Nigerian movies and series, and 2025 added another major entry to its library: To Kill a Monkey. This gritty crime thriller series, written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Kemi Adetiba, offers a raw look into Lagos cybercrime, ambition, betrayal, and survival. Released on July 18, 2025, the show immediately sparked discussions across social media and streaming forums.
In this article, we’ll break down the story, themes, cultural significance, and why To Kill a Monkey is one of the most powerful Netflix Nigerian series of the year. If you’re searching for an honest review, a spoiler-free synopsis, and insights into what makes it binge-worthy, keep reading.
Plot Overview
The story follows Efe, a gifted but struggling programmer in Lagos. Life hasn’t been kind to him, and when desperation pushes him toward quick money, he finds himself drawn into the orbit of his childhood friend, Oboz—a feared and charismatic crime lord. Oboz runs a cybercrime empire that exploits the weak, manipulates the digital underground, and profits from global scams.
At first, Efe only wants a way out of poverty. But as he sinks deeper into Oboz’s schemes, he’s forced to face difficult questions:
- How far will he go for money?
- Can he protect the people he loves without betraying himself?
- Is there a way out of this dark world once you’ve entered?
With each episode, the tension rises. The series isn’t just about scams—it’s about morality, choices, and survival in a system designed to exploit the desperate.
The Cultural Weight of the Title
The name To Kill a Monkey carries a controversial but powerful meaning. In Nigeria, “monkey” has often been used as a derogatory label toward cybercriminals, particularly scammers. Instead of shying away from the insult, the show flips it. Oboz, the crime boss, embraces the “monkey” tag as a symbol of cleverness and resilience.
This reclaiming of language creates an extra layer of meaning. It’s not just a show about scams; it’s about identity, reputation, and survival in a harsh world. The title itself becomes a conversation starter, pushing viewers to look beyond stereotypes.
Performances & Cast
To Kill a Monkey features some of Nollywood’s strongest talent:
- William Benson as Efe – balancing vulnerability with sharp intelligence.
- Bucci Franklin as Oboz – a ruthless yet charismatic kingpin whose presence dominates every scene.
- Bimbo Akintola & Stella Damasus – veteran actors delivering layered, emotional performances.
- A strong supporting cast that adds realism to the Lagos underworld.
Each character is written with depth, ensuring even minor roles feel authentic.
Themes That Hit Hard
The show isn’t just entertaining—it explores themes that resonate deeply:
- Cybercrime & Morality – It shows the temptation of fast money versus the weight of conscience.
- Friendship & Betrayal – Efe and Oboz’s relationship becomes a constant battle between loyalty and survival.
- Power & Control – The series highlights how people in desperate situations can be manipulated by those in power.
- Cultural Identity – By reclaiming “monkey” as a metaphor, the show comments on how language shapes perception.
These elements make To Kill a Monkey more than a typical crime drama—it’s a social commentary wrapped in suspenseful storytelling.
Audience Reactions
The series has already stirred strong online reactions. On Reddit, viewers called it “tense as hell,” with others praising the sharp dialogue and biting Nigerian insults that brought both intensity and humor. Nigerian fans celebrated the authenticity of the slang and settings, while international audiences appreciated how Netflix continues to spotlight African storytelling.
Some critics felt the pacing was slow in parts, but most agreed that the suspense and character-driven storytelling outweighed any minor flaws.
Why You Should Watch To Kill a Monkey on Netflix
- It’s a fresh Nollywood crime thriller with international appeal.
- The writing balances suspense, social commentary, and humor.
- Performances are top-notch, especially from Bucci Franklin and William Benson.
- If you loved Nigerian hits like King of Boys or Shanty Town, this is your next binge.
Conclusion
To Kill a Monkey is more than a Netflix release—it’s a cultural milestone for Nigerian cinema on the global stage. Through Efe’s journey, the series asks timeless questions about ambition, loyalty, and morality in a corrupt system. With a gripping story, layered performances, and authentic Nollywood style, it’s a must-watch for 2025.
If you’re looking for a dark, thrilling, and thought-provoking series, add To Kill a Monkey to your Netflix watchlist today.
