In response to circulating online speculation, Nigerian B2B e-commerce platform Alerzo has officially clarified its operational status. The company firmly denies it is conducting a general sale of assets, stating that only scrap and non-functional vehicles are being disposed of. This clarification comes directly from the founder and CEO, Mr. Adewale Opaleye, in a recent discussion with Nairametrics.
The clarification addresses a video that purported to show numerous company vehicles marked for sale. Opaleye refuted this representation, explaining that the vehicles featured were not operational assets and emphasized that the company’s logistics model does not utilize motorcycles. This incident highlights the challenges businesses can face in public perception, much like when analysts examine whether inflation will reduce further in 2026, says one expert, as market sentiments can be easily swayed by incomplete information.
While acknowledging an existing debt issue with Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, Opaleye was clear that the disposal of scrap materials is unrelated to those financial proceedings. He reaffirmed that Alerzo remains actively in operation. The legal matter with Moniepoint escalated earlier this year when the Federal High Court in Lagos granted a Mareva injunction, freezing assets linked to Alerzo and its associates pending debt resolution. The bank reported difficulties in serving court documents, with one defendant entity, Alerzo PTE Limited, traced to Singapore.
Alerzo’s journey reflects the volatile nature of the startup ecosystem, where today’s news might highlight Nigeria’s FDI jumps, while another story reveals sectoral struggles. Founded as an innovative platform connecting manufacturers directly with neighborhood retailers, Alerzo once experienced rapid growth. It secured significant funding, expanded across southwestern Nigeria, and created substantial employment. However, by 2023, the company confronted the harsh realities of a low-margin sector, initiating layoffs amid rising operational costs for vehicle maintenance, fuel, and warehousing.
This situation serves as a reminder of the complex landscape for businesses in the region, where maintaining stability requires navigating multiple challenges. The commitment to clear communication, as seen in this rebuttal, is crucial for maintaining stakeholder trust during difficult periods.
