I lost everything to a fake supplier, but I found something bigger

Two years ago, I staked my entire savings on a container of tokunbo phones from Lagos. My cousin introduced me to the supplier, said he was solid. I didn't test a single phone before paying. Stupid me.

When the container landed, we opened it and my heart just sank. Dead batteries, cracked screens, all hidden under fresh casings. I lost everything. My shop in Aba closed for three months. I was sleeping on my friend's floor, eating garri twice a day. My sister's school fees were due and I couldn't even look at her face.

But see, that pain taught me something no school ever will. Trust is good, but verification is better. Now I test every single phone myself, even if it takes two extra days. I check every connection, every IMEI. My cousin still calls me but I don't pick up. Some lessons cost you everything, but they make you sharper than before. I rebuilt from zero and now I'm doing better than I ever did. God is involved.

Wetin don cost you everything and still teach you the most?