Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has slammed reports that he has been blacklisted by top figures in the country’s music industry.
The backlash followed comments from popular influencer Tunde Perry, who claimed he attended a meeting where some music executives allegedly agreed to blacklist Portable due to alleged gross misconduct in the industry. Perry suggested that Portable’s actions not only put him in the “black book” of industry heavyweights but also discouraged support for up-and-coming artists.
Perry further alleged that ace rapper and music executive Olamide has become cautious about assisting emerging talents because of his experience with Portable, who reportedly turned against him after Olamide supported his breakthrough track, ‘Zazu’.
In response, Portable released a video statement blasting Perry, Olamide, and the executives allegedly involved. The singer boasted that he does not rely on industry heavyweights to succeed, asserting that his fan base alone is enough to sustain his career.
He said:
“I am bigger than them. Who are those who want to blacklist? I heard that Tunde Perry said Olamide and his circle of music executives called for me to be blacklisted. Are you guys my fans or my God? Are you feeding me? I have my own fans. I am bigger than any f**king person.”
Portable also warned against past assistance being used against him:
“Anyone who wants to help you won’t stress you. Don’t use the assistance you gave me in the past to stress me. There are a lot of people who helped me without stressing me. Why would you say they shouldn’t play my songs again? Olamide, don’t mess with me. If you mess with me, I will return the energy. Stay on your own lane.”
The drama underscores ongoing tensions within the Nigerian music industry, where conflicts between established artists and rising stars continue to generate headlines and social media debates.
