Some residents of Mararaba, Nasarawa State, say they patronise second-hand shoes also known as “Okrika shoes” because they are durable and affordable.
The respondents spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Mararaba,
Miss Deborah Moses, a student, said she patronised second-hand shoes because they were cheaper and more unique than new ones.
According to her, Okrika shoes are more affordable when compared to new shoes in boutiques.
“Most dealers go to buy first grade Okrika shoes and put them in their boutiques to sell at exorbitant prices.
”This is because the Okrika shoes are unique and durable; it has no comparison with some new ones. If you go to okrika market, you can buy the same shoe that is being sold at an exotic boutique for a lower price, she said.
Mr Udoekpo Ubong, a lawyer, said he preferred second-hand shoes because they were more sustainable than the new ones.
He said Okrika products were more original and depending on the grade one bought.
“If you buy the first grade, most of them are original; it is better to buy them rather than using your money to buy something that is fake.
“When I have the money, I go for the first grade okrika shoes, clothes and any other things,” he said.
On her part, Mrs Gladys Ohiwere , a headmistress, said she often patronised Okrika shoes because they lasted longer than new shoes.
“Okrika shoes are very durable and cheap; shoes you get second-hand at N3000 can cost up to N15, 000 if you see new ones.
“Second hand shoes are unique; you cannot see a particular design everywhere.
“Sometimes, Okrika shoes are rarely seen and this makes it unique. A new shoe is common; unlike a second-hand shoe which is selected; that is why they are unique,” she said.
(NAN)
