Social media commentator VeryDarkMan, popularly known as VDM, has commented on a recent protest by Igbo traders in Lagos markets over the presence of Chinese traders operating in the same commercial spaces.
In a video shared on his Instagram page on September 15, 2026, VDM questioned the protesters’ demand for the Chinese traders to leave, arguing that removing foreign competitors would not address the broader challenges facing Nigerian businesses.
He said Nigerian traders should consider increasing investment in local production and manufacturing rather than focusing solely on competition from foreign traders whose products are sold at lower prices.
“Igbo Traders In Lagos Markets Were Protesting That Chinese Traders Must Leave The Market Because They Sell Cheaper And Are Spoiling Their Businesses, Chanting, ‘Chinese Must Go.’ What These Guys Don’t Understand Is That The World Has Advanced, But They Didn’t Advance With It, And That’s Why They Have Been Left Behind,” VDM said.
VDM also raised questions about the potential implications for Nigerian traders if China were to impose similar restrictions on Nigerians seeking to travel there for business.
He noted that many Nigerian traders depend on access to Chinese manufacturers and markets to source products for sale in Nigeria, while highlighting what he described as the country’s continued reliance on imported goods.
“You’re Saying China Must Leave The Market, But What If China Says They’re No Longer Giving Nigerians Visas To Travel There And Meet Manufacturers? Your Market Won’t Have a Market Because Nigeria Don’t Produce And Manufacture Anything. We Only Import In 2026,” he added.
