Portable Blasts Counterfeit iPhone 17s Flooding Nigerian Market

Nigerian music sensation and street-hop icon, Portable, has taken to social media to sound a vital alarm, warning his millions of fans and the wider Nigerian public about a dangerous surge in counterfeit iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Max devices in the local market.

In a candid address, the Zazuu Zeh crooner expressed deep concern over rampant tech fraud, emphasizing that many "vendors" are exploiting the hype around the non-existent or newly-released flagship device by selling low-quality clones or cleverly rebranded older iPhones.

Portable, known for his direct and unfiltered style, urged potential buyers to exercise extreme caution, particularly when purchasing from unverified sources in popular tech hubs like Computer Village in Lagos and other major cities.

"I hear say dem dey sell fake phone finish. Counterfeit iPhone 17 dey everywhere! If you no want waste your money, you must shine your eyes (be vigilant)," Portable reportedly stated in a video that has since gone viral, driving home the message of vigilance with his signature catchphrases.

Tech experts and consumer protection agencies have consistently warned about sophisticated counterfeit operations in Nigeria. Portable's alert highlights several common tactics:

The fake devices are usually offered at significantly lower prices than the official retail cost, which serves as a major red flag for savvy consumers.

As a highly influential figure, Portable’s public service announcement carries significant weight, especially among younger Nigerians who are often the target demographic for acquiring the latest smartphones. His intervention transforms a typical tech warning into a high-profile consumer alert, making it more likely to reach the intended audience.

The prevalence of smartphone scams in Nigeria not only leads to financial loss for individuals but also damages consumer trust in legitimate local tech businesses.