Nigerian street-hop singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred widespread reactions after a viral statement linked to him surfaced online during ongoing political discussions around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the statement, Portable allegedly warned Nigerians, particularly Yoruba voters, to support Tinubu to avoid unrest, while also claiming he had been “signed” and would soon distribute campaign items like rice and vegetable oil. The tone of the message, which included spiritual threats, has since triggered debates across social media about celebrity involvement in politics and the language used during campaigns.
The clip, which spread rapidly on X and TikTok this week, shows the _Zazoo Zeh_ crooner speaking in Yoruba and Pidgin. He suggested that failure to back Tinubu could bring consequences, a remark many interpreted as coercive. The mention of “rice and vegetable oil” also revived criticism of vote-buying and stomach-infrastructure politics.
Portable is no stranger to political controversy. In previous instances, he openly admitted switching political loyalty based on financial incentives, claiming he had been paid at different times to either criticize or support Tinubu. In 2022, he apologized after initially insulting the then-candidate, saying he had been “misled.” This pattern has made his recent comments even more controversial, with critics questioning the sincerity of celebrity endorsements in Nigerian politics.
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The involvement of entertainers in political campaigns is not new. During the 2023 elections, several public figures, including Naira Marley and MC Oluomo, publicly showed support for Tinubu. Some of these endorsements also sparked backlash, especially when statements were perceived as coercive or divisive. Naira Marley faced heat after urging fans to vote APC, while MC Oluomo’s comments about Igbo voters in Lagos drew condemnation.
Similarly, actor Zack Orji and other celebrities aligned with the ruling party have faced criticism over their political positions, with many Nigerians arguing that such influence can shape public opinion unfairly, particularly among young voters. On the other hand, artists like Falz and Mr Macaroni have used their platforms to criticize government policies and back opposition movements.
Political analysts warn that while celebrity endorsements can energize campaigns, extreme rhetoric or threats may deepen tensions in an already sensitive political climate. “When influencers frame voting as a do-or-die affair, it undermines democracy,” said Dr. Tunde Ajayi, a Lagos-based political scientist. “Voters should choose based on policy, not fear or gifts.”
Supporters of Portable argue he is exercising free speech and mobilizing his base. Critics say his history of flip-flopping for money exposes the transactional nature of some endorsements. The Independent National Electoral Commission has repeatedly warned against voter intimidation and inducement, though enforcement remains weak….Discover More
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