Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has been making headlines once again, but this time for all the wrong reasons.
The controversial singer, known for his unconventional behavior and provocative comments, failed to perform at a highly anticipated concert in Ibadan on Thursday, January 2, 2025, organized by Fuji star Taye Currency.
His absence came amid mounting tensions and backlash from the people of Ibadan, who have long been upset over remarks made by Portable in a viral video late last year.
Portable’s Offensive Remarks Ignite Backlash
The controversy surrounding him began when a video surfaced online in which he criticized the people of Ibadan and Oyo State for not owning buildings with Plaster of Paris (PoP).
During a feud with his ex-lover, Queen Dami, Portable showcased an apartment he rented for her, adorned with PoP decor.
He suggested that such amenities were absent in Ibadan and Oyo State, claiming they were more common in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria.
The video quickly went viral, drawing widespread condemnation from Ibadan residents and others who saw Portable’s remarks as disrespectful and dismissive of the region.
Public outrage was swift and fierce, with many condemning him for his comments and accusing him of elitism and ignorance regarding the realities of life in Ibadan and Oyo State. Portable’s remarks were viewed as an attempt to demean the people of the region, leading to a strong backlash.
Portable Scheduled to Perform at Taye Currency’s New Year Concert
Despite his previous comments, he was billed to perform at Taye Currency’s New Year Concert in Ibadan. The concert, which was set to take place at a prominent venue in the city, was expected to draw a large audience of fans eager to see the Zazu crooner live.
However, just days before the event, concerns over his presence began to surface, primarily due to the lingering tensions surrounding his comments about Ibadan.
Jarule Entertainment, the concert’s organizer, addressed these concerns in an interview with Tribune Online.
They explained that following discussions with the commissioner of police, they had signed an undertaking to ensure security at the venue.
Despite these efforts, reports circulated that some members of the public were still seeking Portable’s whereabouts and expressing dissatisfaction with his appearance.
Security Concerns Prompt Withdrawal
Jarule Entertainment stated that the decision to prevent Portable from performing was made after considering the potential security risks. The team cited security concerns as the primary reason for his absence.
“We spoke to the commissioner of police about the matter and even signed an undertaking. We were provided with adequate security at the venue but we got reports that some people were still asking around for his whereabouts and lodging in Ibadan. It was then decided that he {Portable} stay off the show altogether,” Jarule Entertainment explained.
The organizers emphasized that, as a professional management team, their top priority was ensuring the safety of all attendees. The decision was not an easy one, but they believed it was necessary to maintain order and prevent any disruptions during the concert.
Reaction from Social Media
The news of his absence quickly sparked a flood of reactions on social media. Many users expressed disappointment and shared their views on the situation.
@KarenSpikes wrote, “So Portable really thought he was going to go scot-free and perform at Taiye Currency’s show… Ibadan lo mo – O mo Layipo!!
“You really think Ibadan is Lagos and you would get away with your BS.”
@TheAdukeIbadan commented, “Ìbàdàn lo mọ̀, o ò mọ láyípo. As of this morning, na only Portable fit translate this proverb.”
@Ahfo_ added, “Portable go need beg Ibadan people, because anywhere on sight in that location, na mending for am.”
@nuclearpr_ posted, “Portable go come online make mouth o. Hand don touch am well for Ibadan.”
Many people expressed their dissatisfaction with his absence, believing that his comments had created too much tension for him to appear safely. Others emphasized that Portable would need to make amends if he hoped to rebuild any form of trust with the people of Ibadan.
The Future for Portable and Ibadan
The incident has sparked ongoing discussions about accountability, respect, and the consequences of public remarks. Portable’s earlier comments have left a lasting impact, and it remains unclear how he will address the situation moving forward.
Jarule Entertainment stated their hope that the matter would be resolved soon, though it remains uncertain when—or if—Portable will return to Ibadan for future events.
“For now, we hope that the matter will be resolved as soon as possible,” Jarule Entertainment concluded.
As he faces further backlash, his absence from the concert has become a significant chapter in the ongoing saga of his career, forcing him to reckon with the consequences of his past statements and actions.
Read Also: Portable Criticizes BBNaija, Demands N100M to fix show
Damilola breaks up with Portable after he ‘publicly insulted’ her
