Portable Laments After Meeting Peter Obi: “If It Were Tinubu, He’d Have Given Us Something”
Nigerian singer, Portable, expressed disappointment and frustration after meeting Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, in Benin, Edo State, over the weekend.
A viral video showed Portable bowing and exchanging pleasantries with Obi by his car, with both men appearing cordial and respectful. However, shortly after the encounter, Portable’s demeanour changed, and he lamented that Obi didn’t offer him any financial support.
“Obi didn’t give us anything. If it were Tinubu, he would have given us something. Let’s go,” Portable said in Yoruba, sparking mixed reactions from onlookers and social media users.
Portable, whose real name is Habeeb Okikiola, rose to fame with his hit single ‘Zazoo Zeh’ in December 2021 and has since been in the public eye for various controversies, including run-ins with the law and public feuds with fellow celebrities.
Before the upcoming elections, Obi was in Benin to support Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate. Portable, on the other hand, was in town for a scheduled performance.
The encounter has sparked intense debate on social media, with many weighing in on Portable’s expectations and Obi’s response. Some have criticized Portable for his apparent sense of entitlement, while others have praised Obi for not succumbing to pressure.
“This is not about politics; it’s about character,” said @OmoNaija on Twitter. “Portable’s attitude shows he’s more interested in handouts than meaningful engagement.”
Others, however, have defended Portable, citing the economic challenges facing many Nigerian artists.
“Portable’s frustration is understandable,” said @DamiAdenuga. “Many artists struggle to make ends meet. Obi could have shown empathy.”
The development comes as Portable continues to make headlines for his music and personal life. His fans remain divided over his actions, with some praising his boldness and others criticizing his approach.
As the debate rages on, Portable’s encounter with Obi serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding celebrity politics and the expectations that come with public figures.
