Clarence Peters, the renowned music video director and son of legendary Nollywood actress Clarion Chukwura and iconic musician Shina Peters, has opened up about why he consciously avoids becoming the kind of man his father was.
During an emotional and revealing conversation on the WithChude podcast, hosted by popular media personality Chude Jideonwo, Clarence Peters discussed the impact of his father’s past decisions, particularly in regard to how he treated women, and how it shaped his own approach to relationships.
Clarence disclosed that his father “screwed up” in many ways, notably by failing to shield his mother, Clarion Chukwura, from industry blackballing and the emotional challenges she faced. According to him, his mother endured significant hardship, including ostracization from colleagues within the Nigerian entertainment industry, an experience that deeply affected her career and personal life.
Clarence further explained that his father’s behavior towards women in the past left a lasting impression on him, making him determined to break the cycle and not repeat the same mistakes. He admitted that his biggest fear growing up was turning out like his father in terms of relationships with women, and he has spent his life trying to be different.
Speaking candidly, Clarence Peters stated:
“My dad screwed up. I mean, using the word ‘screwed up’ is me putting it lightly. His colleagues blackballed my mum, and she was already dealing with a lot of trauma from when she was young.”
“In making ‘Inside Life’, I discovered things I never knew before. Episode 5 of ‘Inside Life’ was actually written by my cousin, who went through a similar experience. When my mum read the script, she started crying because it brought back painful memories of what she had endured.”
He went on to emphasize that the past was a different time, acknowledging that people often did not realize the consequences of their actions until later in life. He noted that his father has now reflected on his past, realizing that material possessions such as wealth, luxury cars, and extravagant living are fleeting, and in the end, all one can do is seek redemption and forgiveness.
Clarence added:
“My mum recently told me that my dad has lived life—he’s been with women, driven amazing cars, stayed in the best houses and hotels, and had money. Now he’s approaching his 70s, and the reality of life is sinking in. Death is certain for all of us, and at this point, all he can do is pray for forgiveness.”
“We have had that conversation. I cannot judge him because I know I have also made mistakes. In many ways, I can relate to some of the choices he made. However, as much as my mum raised me, one of my biggest fears was becoming my father in the way he treated the opposite sex.”
Clarence admitted that despite his efforts, he has not been perfect and has had his own flaws in relationships. He confessed that he has, at times, been a version of what he feared, but he continues to strive to be better and not repeat the same patterns. He concluded by stating that while he understands his father’s past, he still holds himself accountable for his own actions and continues to work on being a better person.
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