One situation trending online recently — between Opeyemi and Yhemo Lee — exposed a deeper issue many Nigerians don’t like to admit: we struggle to separate emotions from business.
When Opeyemi reviewed the perfume and gave it a 7/10, the backlash was immediate. A lot of people said, “He should have gone to Yhemo Lee’s DM instead of reviewing it publicly.”
But let’s be honest — DM or no DM, the reaction would have been the same.
Because the real problem wasn’t where the feedback happened.
The problem was how criticism is interpreted in Nigeria — as disrespect instead of information.
Constructive Criticism Is Not Disrespect
In business, feedback is a tool.
In Nigeria, we often treat it like an insult.
This whole conversation reminded me of something personal.
During a job interview some time ago, I was asked the popular question:
“What can you bring to the table?”
Instead of recycling the usual “I’m hardworking” and “I’m passionate,” I decided to do what actually creates value. I studied their brand and pointed out areas where their social media presence lacked structure and professionalism. I spoke respectfully. I wasn’t rude. I even suggested solutions.
That’s literally what value looks like — identify a problem and offer a fix.
But the reaction?
Cold. Defensive. Uncomfortable.
Apart from HR, everyone else looked offended — the boss, the marketing manager, even the general office mood shifted. It was obvious: “Who does she think she is?”
And mind you, this feedback was given:
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In a private interview
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Without social media
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Without publicity
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Without embarrassment
Yet, emotions still took over.
I picked up on the hostility early and decided not to resume when the time came. And honestly? Best decision I could have made.
The Funny Part? They Eventually Implemented the Feedback
Months later, that same company now posts more consistently. Their content is cleaner. Their brand presence looks far more professional.
Sound familiar?
Because that’s exactly what’s happening with Yhemo Lee’s wife’s perfume business.
Despite the outrage, the brand gained visibility. Conversations increased. Curiosity grew. And yes — sales followed.
So what’s the pattern here?
In both cases, criticism was initially rejected emotionally, but eventually converted into growth.
Why This Matters for Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, and Professionals
Whether you’re running a perfume brand, a real estate company, a startup, or working a 9–5, one skill will always separate growth from stagnation:
Your ability to handle constructive criticism.
Constructive criticism:
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Is not an attack
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Is not hatred
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Is not disrespect
It is feedback meant to improve performance, branding, and results.
Instead of fighting the person giving feedback, better questions to ask are:
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Is there truth in this?
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Can this improve my business or brand?
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What can I adjust or refine?
Emotions Are Valid — But Business Requires Objectivity
If something:
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Makes you money
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Builds your future
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Feeds you
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Represents your brand
Then you owe it to yourself to listen, filter, and improve.
Praise feels good, but it rarely builds strong systems.
Growth often comes from the uncomfortable truths we didn’t want to hear.
And the earlier you learn this, the further you’ll go — in business, career, and life.
In real estate and in life, growth belongs to those who can separate ego from opportunity.
— Belleur