I have followed the online commentary about Big Brother Nigeria. Many people are either passionate about it or passionately against it. The consensus seems to be that while the values espoused on the show are extreme, it is a choice whether to watch it or not.

I spent some time viewing the show yesterday and I can say it’s not the same one that gave us Ebuka, Katung or Kevin. The modus operandi seems to be, “The more sensual you are, the more popular you’ll be.” How this reasoning came about is befuddling as one contestant has already been booted out without regard to her “performance”.

Should you be indifferent about media? Well let me say something about “waka pass” attitudes to culture. Those who follow me know that in the past, I’ve drawn parallels between media and popular culture. When certain values become the norm and we fail to bat an eyelid, they will eventually affect those who don’t subscribe to them. Popular culture has an outsized impact on society and it is in the same society that people will marry, produce leaders, do business and raise children. As you pollute the societal pool, so you will drink from it.

To be sure, calling for the ban of a media show is shortsighted and inefficient. No one should imagine themselves members of the moral police. That which is hidden will simply become more enticing. But, every citizen has a right to design the type of society they want to live in. You can exercise this right. That’s why lobby groups and political action committees are formed. Those who do not espouse your values will campaign for theirs. You should do same.

If you don’t like Big Brother Nigeria, create your own media content and actively promote it. Appeal to society. But know that they will then democratically select what to consume. May the best content win.