Portable Explains Why He Won't Speak Out on Insecurity, Backs Skepta's Call for Change
Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has revealed why he is reluctant to publicly condemn the worsening insecurity and economic challenges facing Nigeria.
The "Zazu" crooner made the comments while reacting to recent remarks by British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, who urged celebrities and the international community to speak up about injustice, insecurity, and hardship in Nigeria.
While expressing appreciation for Skepta's concern, Portable said he believes celebrities living in Nigeria face greater risks when speaking against the government than those based abroad.
According to the singer, fear of persecution and possible repercussions from authorities prevents many entertainers from publicly commenting on sensitive national issues.
"Skepta, God bless you for remembering and speaking for Nigeria. However, you saying we, Nigerian celebrities, should speak up and demand justice, do you want the Nigerian government to pick us? They will arrest us if we speak up.
"This government is oppressing us. Some of us are still being persecuted over our past remarks. We need help. We need support, not just prayers.
"Nigerians in diaspora should speak up because Nigerian government can't arrest them from abroad. Those of us in Nigeria, if we speak, we will be in big trouble.
"So, I'm only concerned about how I can make money and better my own life. It is not like celebrities don't care about Nigeria, but if we speak, they will persecute us."
Portable's comments come amid growing public conversations about the role of celebrities in addressing national issues and advocating for social change.
Skepta's Appeal Sparks Debate
Earlier, British-Nigerian rapper Skepta had called on public figures to use their platforms to draw international attention to what he described as increasing injustice and hardship in Nigeria.
His remarks generated widespread reactions, with some Nigerians applauding his intervention while others questioned whether celebrities should be expected to lead conversations on governance and public policy.
Portable's response has now added another dimension to the debate, highlighting concerns about the personal consequences that public figures may face when engaging in political or social commentary.
Opinion: The Debate Reflects a Difficult Reality
Portable's comments are likely to divide opinion, but they also reveal a broader conversation about responsibility, influence, and fear.
On one hand, celebrities possess enormous platforms and can help amplify important social issues. Their voices often reach millions of people and can draw attention to causes that might otherwise be overlooked.
On the other hand, not every entertainer sees activism as part of their role, and some genuinely fear backlash, criticism, or other consequences for expressing controversial opinions.
The reality is that public figures are individuals with different levels of comfort, conviction, and risk tolerance. While some choose to be outspoken advocates, others prefer to focus on their careers and private lives.
What remains clear is that conversations about insecurity, governance, and citizens' welfare continue to resonate deeply with Nigerians both at home and abroad. Whether those discussions are led by activists, musicians, community leaders, or ordinary citizens, the desire for positive change remains a common thread.
Portable's remarks may not settle the debate, but they have once again highlighted the difficult balance many public figures face when navigating social issues in an increasingly connected and opinion-driven world.
