I recently came across a video of the Zazzu crooner and President of Zeh Nation, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, better known as Portable, weeping like a baby. He was in a sober mood, clearly hit by a reality too bitter to swallow.
In the video, the Were Olorin (mad singer), Idaamu Adugbo, ‘Government liability’ known for his unfiltered tongue, shifted from incantations to lamentations in Yoruba, calling on Ifa and the people to come to his aid. It was evident that he had brought this trouble upon himself through his reckless words and actions.
Portable, a loquacious and intelligent young man, seems to be under some sort of influence—whether of juju or sheer audacity—that gives him the confidence to recklessly mock situations and people, including those who have helped him in the past.
Who can forget how he called his former promoter, Kogbagidi, a “ripper”? Or how he disrespected Davido just because the singer didn’t meet his expectations when they met in the U.S.? What about how he paid Taye Currency back in his own coin after being prevented from performing at a show in Ibadan? The list goes on.
His ungrateful shenanigans and endless jam talk have made even his most loyal fans worry that he might be on the path to self-destruction. Many now see him as a fading glory, ruining what he has built with his own hands.
His recent outburst against Ibadan and Oyo, following his encounter with Queen Dami, the former wife of the late Alaafin of Oyo, has also added fuel to the fire. The level of curses rained on him from all corners cannot be washed away by even the great Indian Ocean unless God show him mercy
Now, the government is on his neck over his lack of permits for constructing his Odogwu Bar.He revealed that OGPDPA officials sealed his unfinished building and hotel in Sango-Ota, arrested and detained over 20 of his workers, and confiscated alcoholic beverages from his bar.
But in his defense, Portable claims:
“Odogwu Bar no be just bar and music we dey do there. I dey help people train them on different artisan work. But they don cut down destiny of future leader.”
Additionally, his hotel construction was sealed off, and he allegedly attacked government officials sent to enforce the order. Despite his attempts to reach out to the presidency and other influential figures to beg Governor Dapo Abiodun, it seems he may have to face the music. He believes his issues with the governor stem from his open support for Senator Adeola Yayi.
Portable is not the only young musician in Nigeria, yet instead of focusing on using his God-given talent to build a lasting career, he seems more invested in noise-making and controversy. He often boasts about his connection with Ifa and juju, but Ifa ki seke—Ifa does not support falsehood. You cannot claim to represent Ifa while acting contrary to its principle.
Portable must do more than just apologize he needs to change his ways. As one of his fans, I truly want to see him grow, both as an artist and as a person. He rose from nothing to stardom, but if he does not tread carefully, he might just throw it all away
