The Alaba dealer who made me chase my own invoice for three months

Last year, during the dry season when Lagos heat dey pepper everybody, I got a call from a big Alaba electronics dealer. Man say he needs industrial generators for his new warehouse. My eyes light up like I just scored a winning goal for Rivers United.

I went to his shop four times. Each time, he dey talk about Arsenal. "Chidi, my guy, if Arsenal win this weekend, I go sign your contract on Monday." I swear, I started supporting Arsenal small small just to understand his mood swings. E pain me die.

One Friday, he called me at 7pm. "Oya, bring the papers, I don tire of this generator wahala." I left Yaba, entered bike, paid ₦3,500 transport to Alaba. When I reach, he say, "Ah, my guy, you come today? I dey watch match. Come back Monday."

Na so I learn say some clients no dey ever ready. But eventually, e sign. And since that day, any Arsenal match wey my guy lose, I no go near his shop for one week. Lesson: understand your client's triggers, even if e be football frustration. 😤