Nollywood actor Sylvester Madu has responded to online criticisms over his involvement in the second-hand clothing business, popularly known as okrika, saying that the business is widely misunderstood and unfairly stigmatized.
In a video posted online, Madu addressed the backlash following a viral clip from 2023 that showed him arranging clothes at a local market in Enugu — a scene that triggered speculation about his financial status.
Madu, known for his roles in action-packed Nigerian films, clarified that his business is legitimate and respectable.
He explained that many Nigerians depend on second-hand goods, not just in clothing but also in other everyday essentials.
“They keep talking about okrika as if it’s something from the gutter. 80% of Nigerians use okrika. The cars we drive are okrika. Some of the TVs in your house are okrika. Or you think it’s only clothes that are okrika?” he said.
The actor further clarified that his own business focuses on selling brand-new clothes imported from the United States, not used items, and stressed that the term “okrika” should not be seen as derogatory.
“I’ve made it clear that I’m not selling okrika, and it’s not a bad business. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not condemning it, unlike what you guys heard in the interview”, he stated.
The controversy began when a video surfaced in 2023 showing Madu arranging clothes on the floor of a local market in Enugu, sparking speculation about his financial situation.
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