Outrage as Aba Traders Allegedly Copy Designs from Zlatan Ibile’s Fashion Store, Sparking Controversy
In a recent social media uproar, Dr. Penking, a writer and X user, has voiced dissatisfaction over the alleged replication of designs from singer Zlatan Ibile’s newly launched fashion outlet in Lekki, Lagos, by traders in Aba, southeastern Nigeria. The controversy erupted when Dr. Penking criticized the traders for imitating Zlatan’s designs, expressing concern that such actions could hinder the singer’s ability to generate revenue from his investment.
Zlatan Ibile recently made headlines with the grand opening of his ZTTW fashion store in Lekki, a venture that exuded luxury and sophistication, drawing attention from celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. However, the excitement surrounding the store’s launch quickly turned into controversy as reports emerged of Aba traders allegedly replicating Zlatan’s designs within hours of the store’s unveiling.
Dr. Penking took to X to condemn the imitation, highlighting the significant financial investment made by Zlatan in establishing the ZTTW store, which he claimed was worth a staggering N237 billion. He expressed concern that the proliferation of counterfeit versions of Zlatan’s designs could undermine the singer’s efforts to capitalize on his brand and recoup his investment.
The post by Dr. Penking sparked a debate among X users, with some questioning the validity of the reported value of Zlatan’s store and others expressing skepticism about the extent of the alleged imitation by Aba traders. Some users criticized the tendency to exaggerate financial figures on social media platforms, while others defended the entrepreneurial spirit of Aba traders.
While the controversy surrounding the alleged imitation of Zlatan’s designs continues to generate heated discussions online, the incident underscores broader issues within the Nigerian fashion industry, including the proliferation of counterfeit products and the challenges faced by designers in protecting their intellectual property.
Meanwhile, Zlatan Ibile has remained active on social media, recently sharing a video showcasing his festive side in a Santa Claus costume and promoting bookings for appearances during the holiday season. The singer’s diverse ventures and continued presence in the spotlight ensure that his influence extends beyond the realm of music, despite the controversies that surround his entrepreneurial endeavors.
