Okrika is a port town in Rivers state. The name has been synonymous with cheap, used clothes sold in Nigerian markets. Sometimes though one can find unused items in okrika bales. The prices of okrika clothes are graded according to quality and some can be as cheap as a bottle of coke. It is true that life in Lagos is expensive but you can augment your income by buying ‘bend down select’ clothes. Even though it’s said that there is a higher health risk when you wear used clothes, some others have argued that all you have to do is wash them properly and you’re good to go. There are numerous places you buy okrika clothes in Lagos. Here are some of them:
Balogun Market:
Disputably the largest market in Lagos, they are known for affordable clothings, accessories and even shoes. It is advisable you go with anyone that can navigate the lanes as the market is a complex maze. After hours of trying to figure out the route you could end up in the same place you started. Develop a bargaining culture as soon as you step in. there is a lot the market has to offer. Balogun Market is inside the web called Idumota, Eko.
YABA Market:
Yaba is a place you find affordable used first grade clothes for as low as you can bargain. It’s cheaper to visit during evening hours as the sellers struggle to sell off their stocks for the day. Get a harassment protector to avoid infringement on your person though. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are popular days to get the best you can imagine.
Tejuosho Market:
This is a newly rehabilitated ultra-modern facility found in Yaba, and it shares borders with Yaba market. Trendy outfits can be found in the market. The market looks expensive, as if it carters for the Aristocrats. It sells affordable ‘London used’ clothes.
Aswani Market:
It is a popular ‘Bend down select Boutique’. Located in Isolo, it is a tabernacle for second hand clothes though you can find quality high grade clothes also. It attends to the wishes of teeming population in Lagos. Whenever you get there on Tuesday, you get a better price offer as it is the unofficial market day.
Oshodi Market:
You can find clothing materials here at affordable rates. This fabric market found at the Isopakodowo is known for its discounted prices.
Katangua Market:
This is found in Abule egba, a leading market in second hand wears. The heaps of clothes call for your attention as you pass with its different grade and altered price rates. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are also important days you should keep open in your calendar to save your pockets.
Badagry Market:
Apart from the indigenous Alaba International Market popular for electronics, you will find Agbalata International Market in Badagry. Close to Benin-Seme Borders, they are Badagry’s biggest trading spots. They do not deal specially on clothes but there’s a section where you find clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. This section is further divided into two: a part for new ones and another for fairly used ones, and there is an obvious difference in price.
Instagram:
Yeah you read right. You can buy okrika clothes on Instagram too. All you have to do is find an follow the okrika seller of your choice, when they put up clothes you like, you contact them, pay for the item and it’s delivered to your doorstep! Still in doubt? Check out the Instagram accounts below:
For women:
For ladies’ shoes and bags:
For Ladies’ bags:
Even for Kids:
Feature image credit: MG Africa logo.
