A young businessman from Kano State, Yusuf Imam Yahaya, has spoken out about his six-year struggle against what he describes as oppression, injustice, and attempts to crush his company by influential individuals wielding money and power.
Yusuf, 27, explained that his tea company, Y&Z, became embroiled in a trademark dispute with one of the major tea brand,, despite following all legal procedures.
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“We followed every legal path,” Yusuf stated. “We registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), obtained a trademark license after verification, and secured approval from NAFDAC and SON before we began producing tea leaves.”
He further emphasized that Z&Y Black Tea was not created out of personal ambition but was legally established.
Despite complying with all legal regulations, Yusuf claims his company is facing pressure and harassment from powerful individuals in Nigeria who are trying to shut down their business.
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Yusuf revealed that the court ruled in his favor, confirming that those challenging his company had no legal rights over the disputed trademark.
He added that the Nigerian police placed his name and photo on a list of wanted individual, an action he insisted is unjustified, as he has not committed any serious crime.
He argued that the issue is purely a trademark dispute and not a criminal matter.
According to Yusuf, this case is more than just a business dispute; it highlighted the broader challenges young entrepreneurs in Northern Nigeria face in establishing successful enterprises.
He warned that if such injustices continue, they could discourage young people from launching businesses, ultimately worsening poverty and unemployment in the region.
He has appealed to the Nigerian government, media outlets, community leaders, and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure justice prevails and protect talented young individuals striving to contribute to the country’s development.
Recently, the Nigerian police posted Yusuf’s photos on X (formerly Twitter), identifying him as a wanted individual in connection with an alleged forgery case.
When contacted, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, stated that the command would be contacted for further information.