Nigerian social media influencer, VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been called out by an Igbo businessman, Tochukwu Harrison Mmaduboallor, over allegations that his recent videos in China could harm the businesses of Igbo traders.
Allegations of Trade Secret Exposure
In a video shared online, Tochukwu accused VDM of exposing the confidential supplier networks that many Igbo businessmen rely on to succeed in China.
“VeryDarkMan will render many Igbo youths in China useless all in the name of helping Nigerians by importing goods cheaper directly to Nigeria. Business is all about secrecy. Real businessmen don’t introduce their suppliers to their customers,” Tochukwu stated.
He also highlighted the sacrifices Igbo traders make, including spending over N2 million on flights and enduring harsh living conditions just to maintain their trade abroad.
Potential Threat to Igbo Economic Influence
Tochukwu warned that VDM’s actions could disproportionately affect Igbo traders, who dominate Nigerian trade in China more than any other ethnic group.
He argued that linking Nigerian buyers directly to Chinese manufacturers, though intended to increase transparency, could unintentionally disrupt established businesses that rely on confidential supplier relationships.
He further emphasised that many Igbo traders work under difficult conditions, sometimes sleeping on the streets, just to make ends meet.
Tochukwu stressed that these sacrifices and the reliance on secrecy are central to the success of Igbo businessmen in China.
Concerns Over Igbo Dominance in Trade
Tochukwu concluded by saying that Igbo men hold a dominant position in Nigeria’s trade relations with China compared to other tribes.
He expressed fears that VDM’s mission to connect Nigerian buyers directly with Chinese factories could undercut the businesses that have long depended on maintaining supplier confidentiality.