Lagos — Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has sparked controversy on social media with his recent comments about the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests. In a viral video, Portable described the protesters as “poor and lazy,” stating that their joblessness is the reason for their participation in the demonstrations.

The street singer, who was previously involved in the EndSARS protests, criticized those who reminded him of his past activism, explaining that his economic status at the time motivated his participation. He argued that the current protests are driven by individuals who are not contributing to society and encouraged people to fight for their own success.

“Most of the end bad governance protesters are poor and lazy people. You don’t have work. That’s why you’re protesting. Fight for yourself. Poor man thinking is protest,” Portable said.

His remarks have been met with backlash from Nigerians online, with many calling for his Instagram page to be taken down. Critics argue that his comments are insensitive and unhelpful to the ongoing movement.

Reactions:

• @Omolola Silver criticized Portable for his lack of self-awareness, stating, “I blame Olamide and Poco Lee for this! Portable, try always to watch your videos, listen to your persuasion, and give your brain some time to process it.”
• @Good Girl Pres simply wrote, “E no get sense.”
• @Call Me Famous Boy questioned the attention Portable is receiving, saying, “Why are you all giving this nuisance attention? I hate that you are making him more popular for no reason; this guy needs rehab for real.”
• @Dave Cyber remarked, “As them dey dash you money and car up and down that’s why you mumu.”
• @Tiwa Stuffnthings accused Portable of not recognizing his own luck, saying, “If no be God wey answer your prayers. I know say you for dey among those tout wey dey burn police station. Oloshi.”
• @Heisvictor labeled him a “complete nuisance.”
• @Omonaijabetter reported that many have unfollowed and reported him.
• @Indommi1 suggested that Portable’s success has clouded his judgment, saying, “No be your fault Portable, who life dey favour go think say others no serious.”
• @Mayorsoj attributed Portable’s current status to his association with Olamide, stating, “Na Olamide I blame. If no be Olamide’s voice for Zazu, this werey for dey among people wey dey loot for him location.”