Nigerian street pop sensation, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, recently ignited controversy after publicly berating Fuji music legend Saheed Osupa. In a viral video, the “Zazu Zeh” crooner labeled Osupa as “big for nothing,” a statement that sent shockwaves across the Nigerian music industry and sparked widespread backlash from fans and industry stakeholders.
Portable’s comments, seen as both disrespectful and unnecessary, quickly drew reactions, especially from Osupa’s loyal followers, who regard him as one of the most revered Fuji musicians in Nigeria. Many criticized the singer’s lack of decorum, urging him to show more respect for veterans who paved the way for younger artists in the industry. The backlash forced Portable into damage control mode, leading to a surprising reversal of his stance.
Public Apology: Portable Retracts Statement on Osupa
Following the intense criticism, Portable made a swift U-turn, publicly apologizing to Saheed Osupa in another video posted on his social media pages. The singer admitted that his earlier statement was made in the heat of the moment and that he had no intention of disrespecting the Fuji maestro. He further expressed his admiration for Osupa’s contributions to the Nigerian music industry, calling him a legend in his own right.
In his apology, Portable also acknowledged that his outburst stemmed from misinformation and external influences. He pleaded with Osupa’s fans and the general public to forgive him, emphasizing that he is still learning and growing in the industry. His apology was met with mixed reactions—some accepted his remorse, while others dismissed it as insincere and a mere publicity stunt.
Fuji Community Reacts: Support for Saheed Osupa
The Fuji music community did not take Portable’s insult lightly, as several Fuji artists and stakeholders came out in support of Saheed Osupa. Many artists, including Pasuma, KWAM 1, and other notable figures, expressed their disappointment in Portable’s comments, calling on him to respect his elders in the industry.
Fans of Fuji music also voiced their displeasure, stating that the genre has maintained a rich legacy that should not be ridiculed by younger artists. Several social media users accused Portable of constantly stirring controversy to stay relevant, while others urged him to focus on his craft rather than attacking established musicians.
Portable’s Reputation and Pattern of Controversies
Portable is no stranger to controversy. Since rising to fame with his hit song “Zazu Zeh,” the singer has made headlines for various reasons, including clashes with industry colleagues, law enforcement, and even his former associates. His latest altercation with Saheed Osupa adds to the growing list of feuds that have defined his career.
Music analysts believe that Portable thrives on controversy to maintain public interest in his brand. While some argue that his raw and unfiltered personality is part of his appeal, others worry that his constant need for drama may damage his reputation in the long run. His ability to navigate these controversies while maintaining relevance in the industry remains a subject of debate.
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Respect in the Industry
The Portable-Osupa saga serves as a reminder of the importance of respect in the Nigerian music industry. Younger artists often find themselves in the limelight due to social media influence, but industry veterans command respect for their decades of contributions to music and culture. Disrespecting pioneers can lead to backlash and a damaged reputation.
Many industry insiders believe that Portable’s latest controversy should serve as a lesson to rising artists on how to handle public relations. Music is an evolving space where collaboration and mutual respect foster growth, and Portable’s experience highlights the potential consequences of reckless statements.
What’s Next for Portable and Saheed Osupa
Despite the controversy, both artists are expected to move forward with their respective careers. Portable, known for his energetic performances and street credibility, will likely continue making waves in the Afrobeats and street-hop scenes. However, his ability to maintain industry relationships may determine his longevity in the music space.
On the other hand, Saheed Osupa, a well-respected Fuji icon, remains focused on his craft. His influence in the music industry remains intact, and he is expected to continue thrilling his fans with his unique Fuji sound. Whether or not he will respond further to Portable’s comments remains to be seen, but for now, it appears he has chosen to maintain his dignity and let his music do the talking.
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