Greed or Conscience: VDM Takes on BLord –By Matthew Ma

In recent weeks, the bold activism of VeryDarkMan (VDM) has once again highlighted a troubling reality in Nigeria’s economic framework. The issue is that many merchants are exploiting a vulnerable population amid unprecedented hardship. As inflation rates soar, leaving many citizens grappling with stagnant salaries and rising costs of essential goods, the last thing Nigerians should be forced to confront is the harsh and unfair reality of inflated prices that prioritize profit over the basic needs of the people. VDM conducted a thorough investigations that revealed a deeply entrenched culture of greed pervading Nigerian markets. Among the merchants highlighted is the controversial figure known as BLord, who employs a range of unethical tactics to exploit consumers. A particularly glaring example is the exorbitant pricing of sought-after products like the branded iPhone 17 Pro Max—devices that should ideally be within reach of the average consumer. VDM uncovered instances of informal price-fixing involving the iPhone XR, which was rebranded as the iPhone 17 Pro Max and sold by BLord at an exorbitant price of nearly N500,000. According to VDM’s findings, BLord operates with a level of discretion that enables him to impose inflated prices on essential commodities, effectively transforming these items into luxury goods unattainable for a large segment of the population.

The surge in commodity prices cannot be attributed solely to BLord. It encompasses a broader network of business figures, both men and women, who play crucial roles in importing goods from China into Nigeria. Reports have surfaced about some Nigerian entrepreneurs who travel to China with specific requests to produce substandard, inferior-quality products. Upon their return, these individuals often inflate prices to shocking levels that do not reflect the goods’ actual value or quality. This troubling situation raises significant ethical questions that resonate deeply within the Nigerian populace. At the core of these discussions is a poignant moral dilemma: how is it that the economically disadvantaged remain the primary victims of exploitation in our society? For decades, Nigeria has developed a marketplace culture that prioritizes profit above all else, often celebrating financial gain even when it is achieved through cheating, fraud, or outright manipulation. For example, I recently visited a shop to buy some cosmetics. While I was waiting at the cashier, a woman next to me was counting her cash to pay for her items when another woman approached the counter to purchase the same product. To my surprise, the merchant immediately raised the price, citing another cost increase. I was taken aback by how the prices seemed to escalate right before my eyes. The question is: Why has the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) allowed unethical behavior to flourish in our nation, where goods are intentionally priced well above their actual market value?

In this troubling nation, the most vulnerable members of society are subjected to dual layers of suffering. First, they endure the harsh realities of economic hardship, struggling to make ends meet in a system that seems rigged against them. Second, they face further challenges as some of their fellow citizens, driven by greed and self-interest, exploit their circumstances rather than extending empathy or support. VDM’s voice—though it often stirs controversy—represents a vital disruption in today’s cultural and economic landscape. He boldly takes on social media influencers who perpetuate a glamorized image of wealth without offering any absolute transparency about the means by which that wealth was acquired. VDM also scrutinizes merchants who prioritize their own profits at the expense of the most vulnerable in society, effectively punishing those who are struggling financially. Additionally, he calls out business leaders who masquerade their ventures as empowering initiatives while, in reality, they often perpetuate systemic inequalities. His incisive message compels the nation to confront a series of difficult, usually ignored questions: At what point does the pursuit of profit cross the line into exploitation? When did we collectively reach a consensus that the accumulation of wealth is more valuable than the inherent dignity of humanity?

VDM’s critique clearly condemns the actions he directed toward BLord. Allegations against VDM suggest a calculated campaign targeting BLord and other online “merchant-influencers” from the Igbo community. They accused him of raising an alarm that jeopardizes their business operations and reputations in the digital marketplace. Observers have expressed significant concern about the implications of VDM’s actions, arguing that they have had a profoundly negative impact on the livelihoods of these influencers. They contend that deliberate attempts to discredit and diminish their standing could hinder their entrepreneurial efforts, limiting their ability to thrive and grow in the competitive online environment. Other critics of VDM have raised concerns that his assessments are excessively harsh, with many arguing that he tends to express his opinions in an unyieldingly vocal manner. They maintain that his confrontational style has often undermined the potential for constructive dialogue, a crucial factor in addressing complex social issues. Additionally, they alleged that he exhibits a pronounced bias against the Igbo community. According to them, his rhetoric often reflects a tribalistic mindset, fostering divisive sentiments rather than encouraging harmony and unity among the various groups within the community. For them, his approach not only polarizes opinions but also threatens to deepen tensions among factions, further complicating the discourse surrounding these issues.

Proponents of BLord contend that his actions embody the characteristics of a savvy businessman who is adept at identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in a multifaceted, frequently unpredictable economic environment. They emphasize the indispensable role of entrepreneurship in driving social and economic progress, noting that it is through the innovative spirit and willingness to take calculated risks that individuals can forge new paths to growth and prosperity. Supporters argue that this entrepreneurial mindset not only fosters creativity and technological advancement but also contributes significantly to wealth creation and job generation, ultimately leading to a more dynamic and resilient economy.

Supporters of VDM have united to express their unwavering endorsement of his vision for Nigeria as a dynamic and competitive marketplace for business and production. They firmly believe that nurturing a competitive environment will stimulate local entrepreneurship and innovation, ultimately benefiting the economy and the daily lives of citizens. These advocates argue that the Nigerian Government’s current policies are imposing significant hurdles on the populace, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to prosper. They have raised concerns about certain importers, particularly those from China, who they claim frequently undermine local businesses. According to these supporters, despite being seen as suppliers of goods, these importers often exploit Nigerian entities by imposing high fees and offering substandard products. They assert that these foreign entities usually work with local individuals to pursue their own interests, thereby putting Nigerian consumers at a disadvantage and stifling local economic growth. They raised crucial questions about the future of commerce in Nigeria and the well-being of its citizens if this situation continues.

The stark reality is that moral decay typically does not respond to gentle encouragement or subtle hints. It tends to be deeply ingrained and resistant to soft approaches, often requiring more significant interventions or confrontations to address the underlying issues effectively. Subtle suggestions usually fall on deaf ears, as individuals entrenched in moral decline may be unwilling or unable to recognize the need for change. As a result, more direct strategies are often necessary to confront and remediate such pervasive ethical deterioration. Therefore, when business practices contribute to the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, it becomes essential for society to examine those practices critically. Individuals and communities have the right to express their concerns, especially when they perceive that profit motives are being prioritized over ethical considerations and the well-being of others. The pursuit of profit is not inherently detrimental; it can drive innovation and generate employment. However, problems arise when this pursuit crosses into exploitation, compromising the well-being of individuals and communities for financial gain. Thus, the ethical implications of wealth accumulation and the responsibilities that accompany it must not be taken lightly or overlooked. In a world where the divide between the wealthy and the less fortunate continues to grow, the call for greater accountability and ethical stewardship becomes ever more urgent.

Today, VDM has emphasized a vital principle: in a truly just society, ethical conduct—rather than opportunistic exploitation—should form the very foundation of business practices and interactions. This call for a moral renaissance is essential for fostering integrity and ensuring that the interests of the people are prioritized over the greed of a select few. VDM’s position may come across as direct, forceful, and even unsettling, yet it tackles fundamental issues that demand our attention. He raises critical questions: Why do those living in poverty bear the brunt of the costs of survival? Why do social media influencers profit from the very desperation that their content can exacerbate? In a country where the cost of living continues to climb while wage growth stagnates, these inquiries transcend mere “content” or “controversy.” They strike at the core of our national ethics and moral consciousness, challenging us to confront the systemic inequalities that persist in our society. The implications of these questions call for a deeper reflection on our values and the responsibilities we hold toward one another, especially in our divided economic landscape.

This editorial shifts the focus away from personal rivalries and instead addresses a profound clash of values that impacts the very fabric of Nigerian society. Each day, the nation’s most vulnerable populations confront brutal realities exacerbated by soaring inflation, rampant unemployment, ineffective governance, and flawed systems that leave them in a struggle for survival. Nigerians deserve not to endure further hardships imposed by merchants, influencers, and entrepreneurs who prioritize profit over human dignity and well-being. Additionally, this editorial is not intended to vilify entrepreneurship. The reality is that Nigeria genuinely needs dynamic business activity, innovative ideas, and pathways for wealth creation to flourish. However, what is truly detrimental is the manipulation of influence for deceptive ends, resulting in the exploitation of citizens who are already facing challenges. The campaign launched by VDM should act as a crucial wake-up call for regulatory bodies that have, quite astonishingly, remained silent while countless individuals lose their hard-earned money in broad daylight—both in physical marketplaces and the digital landscape.

At the heart of this issue lies the question of moral responsibility. Those who wield platforms of influence must be held accountable for their actions and the messages they propagate. Individuals and businesses that derive profit from the public must embrace transparency in their operations to ensure that trust is not betrayed. Furthermore, it is crucial to confront and expose those who take advantage of the economically disadvantaged, regardless of their follower counts, luxurious lifestyles, or expansive online fan bases. Regulatory authorities must step up and fulfill their obligations, ensuring that influencers are held liable for endorsing products that may mislead or harm consumers. Meanwhile, citizens at large must cultivate a discerning attitude that prompts them to question the origins of wealth rather than simply idolizing it. Although VDM’s voice may come across as confrontational, it resonates with an overarching national yearning for justice, fairness, and genuine compassion—a society that desperately needs them.

VDM is right to challenge the prevailing culture. He is provoking difficult conversations that Nigeria has long avoided. His voice, whether perceived as abrasive or controversial, amplifies the call of the ordinary citizen — a call that insists enough is enough. What Nigeria currently requires is a blend of ethical business practices, strong government regulation, and an informed citizenry. Market unions must address the excesses of their members. Regulatory agencies need to shake off complacency and enforce price control measures where necessary. Additionally, consumers must take a stand against exploitation by choosing not to support extortionist merchants. VDM is right to emphasize that we must not turn the punishment of the poor into a business model. For Nigeria to genuinely heal, it’s crucial that we not only revitalize our economy but also reconstruct our moral compass. Promoting fairness, condemning greed, and supporting advocates for justice—regardless of how loud, uncomfortable, or unconventional their voices may be—are essential steps in this process. Thus, we must not allow exploitation to remain unchallenged through silence. For Nigeria to truly thrive, justice must take precedence over greed. If our nation is to rise again, we must avoid glorifying greed. Those who profit from the suffering of the less fortunate, whether in marketplaces or on social media, need to be reminded of a fundamental truth: the people deserve dignity, not exploitation.

Therefore, if merchants continue to prioritize greed, if influencers persist in exploiting vulnerability, and if regulators remain silent, then poverty will not merely endure — it will intensify. Genuine progress demands fairness, compassion, and ethical leadership, particularly from those who benefit from the public. The marketplace must once again be transformed into a domain of service rather than exploitation. VDM’s campaign, despite differing opinions on his approach, has sparked a vital conversation the nation urgently needs. It is now upon citizens, regulators, and business leaders to take a stand in this moral struggle. Nigerians must decide what they value more: greed or conscience. We cannot afford to make the wrong choice again.

Rev. Ma, S. J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He currently writes from Abuja, Nigeria.