Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has criticised some Igbo traders in Lagos following a protest against Chinese nationals involved in retail trading at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.
The traders staged the protest on Monday, carrying placards with messages including “Chinese must go” and accusing Chinese businesses of taking customers from Nigerian retailers by selling goods directly at lower prices.
Reacting to the development in a video shared online, VeryDarkMan questioned the traders’ approach and argued that Nigerian businesses should adapt to changing market conditions instead of seeking the removal of foreign competitors.
“What these guys don’t understand is that the world has advanced,” VeryDarkMan said, while arguing that greater emphasis should be placed on local production and manufacturing.
He also raised concerns about Nigeria’s dependence on imported goods, pointing out that many Nigerian traders travel to China to source products for the local market. He questioned the potential consequences if access to Chinese manufacturers and suppliers were restricted.
The traders, however, said their protest was not aimed at driving Chinese nationals out of Nigeria. They argued that their concern was specifically about Chinese manufacturers and wholesalers allegedly expanding into direct retail sales within the same markets where Nigerian traders operate.
According to the protesters, Chinese businesses have an advantage because they can source directly from manufacturers and offer products at prices Nigerian retailers find difficult to match. They said the development was affecting sales and threatening the survival of established businesses.
The protest was later suspended following interventions by the traders’ association, local government officials and the police. The association said a committee had been established to examine the traders’ complaints, while discussions with representatives of the protesters reportedly made progress.
The controversy has renewed discussion about foreign participation in Nigeria’s retail sector, local manufacturing, competition and consumer prices. It also highlights the challenges Nigerian traders face in competing within an import-dependent economy.
Background: Chinese businesses have long played a significant role in Nigeria’s import and wholesale markets, while Nigerian traders remain major participants in retail distribution. The latest dispute places those commercial relationships under renewed public scrutiny.
