Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola popularly known as Portable has rubbished Olamide’s involvement in his rise to fame journey.
According to the street singer, Olamide had no hand in how he became famous.
This new position from Portbale has sparked a debate online as social media users, including loyalists of Olamide cautioning Portable to watch his tongue.
The singer, who gained widespread recognition in 2021 after Olamide and dancer Poco Lee featured in his breakout hit Zazu Zeh, made the remarks during a TikTok livestream, addressing perceptions about his journey to stardom.
Portable acknowledged Olamide’s role in his career but rejected the idea that the rapper made him famous. “Is it Olamide that posted me and got me famous? He’s my helper, yes, but I was already famous before he helped me,” Portable stated.
He emphasised that his fame was already growing before the collaboration, claiming, “Everyone wanted to mingle with me at the time, and it even caused some issues.”
Reflecting on the aftermath of their collaboration, Portable expressed dissatisfaction with Olamide’s continued support, alleging a lack of acknowledgment in recent years.
He said: “Since that time that Olamide helped me, has he ever posted me on his story? I thank God for what he did, but still, what year did he help me? It’s not the same feature that I’ve been using to fend for myself all this while.”
Portable also credited figures like blogger Tunde Ednut and British-Nigerian rapper Skepta for contributing to his success.
He highlighted Tunde Ednut’s role in promoting his freestyles and Skepta’s collaboration while accusing some industry insiders of sidelining him.
“Tunde Ednut posted my freestyle; people were already looking for me before Olamide,” he said.
The singer further recounted the circumstances that led to his breakout, stating that an old freestyle video helped him gain recognition.
“It was an old video that brought me to the spotlight,” Portable declared.
Portable’s fiery remarks also included a sharp critique of the industry.
“I’ve been blacklisted in the industry. If you no see me, I no see you! I’m a superstar, fuck you people!” he said, in a rant that went viral.
His statements have sparked mixed reactions among netizens on social media. While some fans sympathise with his frustration, others accused him of being ungrateful to Olamide, who played a significant role in his career trajectory.
