Lessons Learned from the Villains of MTV Shuga

Adebola Aduwo takes an uncomfortable trip down memory lane as she remembers some of the characters we loved to hate on MTV Shuga.

Looking back at the previous seasons of MTV Shuga, we see that some characters have a place in our hearts. Others, not so much.

From seasons one to six, these ‘other’ characters displayed ugly traits of irresponsibility, gender-based violence, selfishness, power drunkenness in relationship — the very things MTV Shuga preaches against. As much as we do not fancy these characters and what they stand for, there is always a lesson or two that we can learn from them. Isn’t that what MTV Shuga is all about?

In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some characters from the previous seasons of MTV Shuga while elaborating on the reasons their actions should never be imitated.

Felix Maverick & Solomon:

I remember watching the three episodes of season 1 in disbelief. I sat there, wondering why an individual, who is well aware of the fact that he’s HIV Positive, would intentionally put the life of their partner at risk. It just did not make any sense.

Well, Felix Maverick was that person and so was Solomon from season 3. And guess what? They were unapologetic about it. I’ll categorize these two men as ‘blessers’ because they were available to provide financial assistance in exchange for sexual favours. More like a barter situation for survival, looking at it from Ayira, Sophie and Princess’ perspective.

So, these men were aware of their HIV status and still went ahead to engage in unprotected sex with their partners. If that isn’t selfishness, then I don’t know what it is. I believe it is highly irresponsible not to be 100% honest about your status with your sexual partner(s). It is only right that you have an honest discussion with your partner, and leave them to decide if they are willing to go on that journey with you or not.

Let me add that we are quick to judge the people in these unfavourable situations – especially the women – without considering that a large percentage of the society we find ourselves was not born into privilege. It’s quite hypocritical to put up your shoulders and hold people up to certain moral standards; do you have the slightest idea of how the pinches of their shoes feel? More often than we like to admit, women do the unimaginable to survive, especially in our patriarchy-drenched society.

Uncle Joe & Baby’s Mom:

It is painful to watch how mothers are detached from their children, completely oblivious to their loud cries for help. 16-year-old Baby was harassed and raped by her step-father’s brother, Joe, in season 2. When she gathered the courage to explain these strange happenings, her mother wasn’t willing to listen to any of it. The signs were right there! All her mom cared about was being in the good books of her new husband – but at the detriment of her daughter’s safety? Not cool.

There are many sexual predators like Joe, who come in the form of uncles and cousins – you know, the people you least expect. A typical African mother is usually an expert at detecting bad company but can sometimes be completely out of touch with what is happening right under her nose. We need to be more observant. Parents, pay attention to your children’s habits, moods and activities – that’s all it takes sometimes.

Nii

In the 3rd and 4th season, we saw that Nii constantly abused Malaika and Mary, both physically and emotionally. He always wanted to have his way and when he didn’t get it, he used his belt. Hitting your partner is never acceptable If you are caught up in an abusive relationship, please do yourself a favour and either find help or a way to leave the relationship. Also, if your safety or well-being is endangered, make sure to file a report with the appropriate authorities. Love doesn’t have to be painful.

Sol & Bada

I’d like to start by reiterating that NO means NO. Not “maybe” or “possibly” – NO. Learn to respect people’s boundaries. It does not matter if you’ve had a sexual relationship with that individual. Sol and Bada, in seasons 5 and 6 (MTV Shuga Naija), turned out to be rapists after refusing to take “No” for an answer. This unacceptable behaviour can not be excused. And it reeks of entitlement, lack of self-control and a thirst for power, you know, to feel like you own a person and can take from them forcefully.

A few minutes of one-sided pleasure and a lifetime of pain, depression/post-traumatic stress disorder. That’s what rape is. Let’s also stop this culture of victim-blaming. A woman is allowed to dress how she wants and go to places whenever she feels like it. Stop blaming the victims and take a moment to focus on the real problem.

Watching the show from season one has made me appreciate what MTV Shuga has been advocating for, time after time. What other characters did you learn from? Join the discussion by leaving your comments below!