Veteran Nollywood actor, Sylvester Madu, has responded to online backlash following revelations that he is involved in the okirika (second-hand clothing) trade, asserting that the practice is widely embraced across Nigeria.
In a video shared online, Madu tackled the criticism, saying many Nigerians hypocritically look down on the business despite being direct beneficiaries of imported second-hand goods.
Recall that he was spotted in 2023 arranging clothes on the floor of a local market in Enugu, sparking speculation about financial constraints.
In a recent video posted online, Sylvester Madu addressed the backlash surrounding okirika business.
“They keep talking about okirika as if it’s one thing that originates from the gutter. 80% of Nigerians use okirika. The cars we drive are okirika. Some of the TVs in your house are okirika. Or you think it’s only clothes that are okirika?”, He asked.
He also addressed misconceptions about okirika business.
“I’ve made it clear that I’m not selling okirika 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.
Watch video below
80% of Nigerians Use 'Okrika', We Should Stop Being Hypocr+tical – Actor Sylvester Madu Reacts to Backlash He Received over his Business. pic.twitter.com/juWnSnzC3Q
— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) April 14, 2025