18/06/2023
'I'm not ashamed of selling Okrika' -- actor Sylvester Madu hits critics
Sylvester Madu has tackled movie lovers who seem surprised that he sells second-hand goods popularly called ‘okrika’.
On Friday, a video surfaced on social media capturing the movie star selling the fairly used items in a market in Enugu.
In the now-viral footage, Madu, clad in a brown jacket, was seen holding a sack of clothes while discussing with some customers.
The video came as a shock to Nigerians; some of whom expressed concern about the actor.
Reacting to the viral clip, Madu said he is proud of “my business empire” which included many people selling various kinds of fairly used items.
He also tackled unemployed youths who are surprised by “my legit business,” urging them to get a job and stop begging for N2000 on social media.
“Do your business legit, no send anybody. Someone saying that this is really encouraging. If someone like me can run my business then why would he be sitting at home and doing nothing? Because there are a lot of Nigerian youths at home doing nothing,” he said in pidgin English.
“Some of them will just come on social media and boys I need urgent 2k. Go outside and work. If you no get work I will employ you. I have boys selling for me at different spots.
“People dey just dey say legit business like something to be ashamed of. What’s the difference between me and the person selling in the market? Because I’m popular? Because I’m an actor or celebrity? So? Make I no run business. Do you know how much people have sent to me and more are still coming? Saying ‘support your business’. No be sey I dey hungry.”
Reflecting on humans’ obsession with material things in 2021, Madu said he once borrowed money to acquire a Blackberry phone just to impress people.
The Anambra-born actor is famous for his villain roles in movies.
He ventured into the movie industry in 1998 and has since become a household name. He has starred in hundreds of movies.
