In 1982, an 18-year-old aspiring actress named Clara Nneka Chukwura landed her breakthrough role in the movie “Money Power,” directed by veteran filmmaker Ola Balogun. This came after her impressive performance in the play “Camwood on the Leaves,” written by her professor, the legendary Wole Soyinka.
On the set of “Money Power,” Clara’s path crossed with that of 25-year-old Oluwashina Akanbi Peters, who was also cast in the movie. This chance encounter would lead to a whirlwind romance between the two, resulting in the birth of their son, Clarence Abiodun Peters, in 1983.
Meanwhile, Oluwashina Akanbi Peters, better known as Sir Shina Peters, was on the cusp of musical stardom. In 1982, he had already tied the knot with his longtime partner, Sammie Ayoka, in a traditional marriage ceremony. Just a year later, in 1983, he would release his landmark album “Ace (Afro Juju Series 1),” which would go on to become a double-platinum success and cement his place as a pioneer of the Afro-Juju genre.
While the relationship between Clara and Shina Peters was short-lived, their son, Clarence, went on to follow in their footsteps, becoming a renowned video director, cinematographer, and filmmaker. Clarence has worked with some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music industry, earning numerous accolades, including the Headies Award for Best Music Director and the Nigeria Music Video Award for Best Cinematography.
The lives of Clara Nneka Chukwura and Sir Shina Peters intersected at a pivotal moment, creating a lasting legacy through their son, Clarence Abiodun Peters, who has continued to make his mark in the entertainment industry. The “Tale of Two Legends” serves as a testament to the enduring impact of their respective artistic pursuits and the profound influence they have had on the next generation.
