Entertainment

Portable that I raised never drank or smoked – Sister, Aminat

Published

4 years ago

June 5, 2022

Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as 'Portable'

To many, his was sudden stardom. Before December 2021, probably, no-one, except those who knew him, knew him. However, in the short time since he released his hit song, ZaZoo Zeh, in which he collaborated with top singer, Olamide and dancer Poco Lee, controversial hip-hop singer, Mr Portable (real name Habeed Okikiola), has been in everyone’s eyes. Thanks majorly to his unique blonde hairstyle, his funny dances, funny, often lewd lyrics, brazen acts and slipshod talks.

A lot of his popularity will also go to the power of the internet, which has undoubtedly made everything he says or does, however controversial, go viral. Immediate examples would be his trip to Kenya, where he released some bedroom videos with some pretty girls. On another occasion, he referred to a female Kenyan fan as ‘hook-up,’ angering several Kenyan fans, including a radio personality, Black Cinderella, who called him out and demanded an apology.

A bit later into the year, he was also quoted as querying the NDLEA, the nation’s agency against illicit drug use and drug trafficking after the agency had invaded the homes of artistes, Zinolensky and MohBad and arrested them over use of drugs. In a video that went viral, he was seen asking: “Can we not smoke weed in our own house again? Are you the ones that built our house or bought land for us? What is it?” As if laws of the nation exempt the ones committed in ones homes. That rant drew a lot of ire and pity from members of the public, who warned him not to over-reach himself in his ignorance.

Overtime, he has also been seen throwing money in the air for people to pick. While many consider it as his way of appreciating the condition of poor masses, of whom he was one until very recently, many see it as public nuisance. He has further stepped up that act following his N50million endorsement deal for Obi Cubana’s Odogwu Bitters.

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Over a month ago, videos of him the United Kingdom, The United Arab Emirates and Turkey also surfaced on the internet. Not one to miss out on an opportunity to troll, he was seen taunting his former promoter, Kogbagidi, over his refusal to facilitate his trip to the UK, saying he had finally landed in the London he saw as a big deal.

Days after, another video went viral, where he was asking his team at the airport if he could smoke weed in the Islamic Republic, saying he smoked in London.

Not one to shy away from controversy for long, he tweeted shortly after, where he asked fans to give him just two years and he’d be bigger than Wiz-Kid, a more illustrious hip-hop singer. This was the same artiste he cited as his inspiration in the music world less than six months before.

In perhaps his most controversial rant, Portable threatened to kill co-nominees in the two categories – Best Street Hip-Hop Artiste and Rookie of the Year, he was nominated for this year’s edition of the Headies Award. The shirtless artiste was seen announcing his nomination and saying in Yoruba, “All those awards, I own them. Whoever is given the awards apart from me, I’ll ask them to kill the person…” Not a few was outraged by that rant, including organisers of the award , who promptly reported him to the Police. The singer promptly retracted the statement.

Why we’re excited over his breakthrough – Family

According to Portable’s sister Aminat Okikiola, a petty trader, who runs a groceries store in Oke-Osa area of Iyana Ilogbo, Ado-odo/Otta Local Government Area of Ogun State, where the singer grew up, Habeeb (Portable) started showing traits of his singing talents right from childhood, before their mother died and she took up his upbringing.

“He started showing his talent for singing from childhood before our mother passed. Right after our mother’s death, he intensified the habit, to the extent that if I sent him on any errand, he would sing throughout the trip. If I gave him a chore, he would sing throughout the chore. I thought it was a joke, like a passing phase. If he was sitting down, he was singing. At a point, I started wondering ‘what kind of thing is this?’ Eventually, I enrolled him with a tailor to learn tailoring. The plan was for him to learn that trade and have a means of livelihood. Funny enough, he learnt sewing, knew the job well and was able to sew well. But he did not ditch his passion, as he kept singing.”

About his schooling, Aminat said, “Of course he went to school. He attended Iganmode Secondary School in Ota. Primary school was in Iyana-Iba area in Lagos. There was a time he went to stay with our uncle in Obasanjo area of Ota. I can’t remember the school he attended while he was with him. It was after that he went to Iganmode Secondary School. Then my mum had died. I was twenty when mum died. I am ten years older. I took him in and brought him up. So I am like a mother to him.”

What about their dad? There is a story that their father was nowhere to be found during the boy’s growing days, but has suddenly showed up, enjoying the fruits of the his success, to the extent that he even bought him a car?

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“That’s not true” she said flatly.

“People like to tell stories they know nothing about. My father played his own part in Habeeb’s growing up, even though the family was separated. There was a time I even took him to stay with my father in Abuja when he started this singing thing. He lived with him in Abuja for about seven years but he was still pursuing his singing career. When he saw that it was his passion, he left him to horn it until fortune smiled on him. So let nobody tell you that my dad did not play his part in his growing up. Of course, married couples separate, but they can still impact one another positively, if they know their responsibilities and duties. Later our father returned to Lagos and he kept being active and supportive in our affairs, particularly Habeeb’s. If I called him that I was having any challenge with Habeeb, he would respond. There were times even came over to see to certain matters. Now he stays in Lagos and he is able to see us more regularly.”

Could that be the reason Portable bought him a car? Recall that one of the first things the maverick musician did when he hit limelight was to buy his dad a car.

“Yes of course. Why not? If my mum were to be alive, he would have bought her a car too. I am also praying that God continues to bless him, so that he can buy a car for me too, because I played a great part in his growing up. I suffered bringing him up. It was just the two of us, before dad came into the picture.”

Even now, Aminat, who runs a provision store in front of her house, said, she is already feeling the impact of Portable’s success. “He is supporting me financially, I cannot deny that. He supports my business as well.”

Portable’s little home

This reporter also chose the moment to ask Aminat about a little bungalow under construction a few meters from her own home.

Earlier in the day, when this reporter landed the Oke-Osa neighbourhood, a sleepy community in Iyana Ilogbo near Sango-Ota, where Portable was brought up, most people spoken to kept directing him to a little bungalow under construction, a few meters from Aminat’s house. Then of course, the musician’s only direct relative, Aminat, was said to be away at the market.

“Yes, it’s his house. He is building it for himself.”

Notably, she revealed that it was their dad who was supervising the construction of Portable’s new home.

“That should underline the level of rapport and trust between father and son”, she said.

Asked how she feels about her brother’s sudden success, Aminat’s eyes brightened. “I am happy for him because he suffered. He suffered a lot and I can tell you this be cause I am a living witness. On several occasions, when he seemed down, I would encourage him. And then he would tell me, ‘Sister, don’t worry, I will make it.’ During those moments, he would also say to me, ‘One thing I will tell you is that I will never take what does not belong to me. I will not steal or engage in any shameful act that will bring disgrace to you. But this blow, I must blow.’ And I have said amen to his prayer.

“He has been singing for at least seven years. In truth, some of his songs are very deep. It just happens that it was this Zazoo song that brought him to limelight. Sometimes he would sing some songs and you will be wondering if such song was coming from this little boy. And I would be praying for him to meet somebody who would sign him, because I saw his potentials.”

Asked to speak on the viral video that had her brother paraded naked for allegedly stealing a tricycle popularly called ‘Marwa’, Aminat said, “No, he actually did not steal. That incident actually happened a long time ago, long before he broke into limelight. He had a disagreement with his then promoter, Ija Omode Yusuf, which was settled in no time. It was the boys of Ija Omode, who is a strong transport union leader, who falsely accused him of stealing and stripped him naked to embarrass him. But when Ija Omode heard of it, he was very upset and even came here to apologise and beg him.”

Aminat also vouched for Portable’s cool-headedness as a growing child, leaving one to wonder where the weird lifestyle, marijuana smoking and careless talks came from.

“In truth, he has always been a tough boy. However, he never stole. Throughout his growing up, nobody ever reported to me that ‘hey, your brother stole this or that. But of course, he has always been full of songs, pranks and all sorts of jokes and funny slangs. Sometimes, he would gather kids and start playing pranks and all sorts of slangs with them. Sometimes he even picks on me too.”

About his hemp smoking habit, she said, “Funny enough, I cannot tell when he develop this love for marijuana. The Habeeb, the Portable that I know and brought up never smoked hemp. In fact, he didn’t smoke cigarette or drink alcohol. So I am surprised at the development. Even now, I could almost swear that he does not smoke or drink. I guess it comes with the profession and stardom.”

Does she subscribe to the general belief that marijuana gives artistes inspiration?

Aminat laughed heartily and said, “I don’t know. I have never smoked marijuana, so I cannot tell.”

THE NATION

Entertainment

Afrobeats Drama: Burna Boy–DJ Tunez Clash Fuels Wizkid Face-Off Speculation

Published

2 days ago

April 12, 2026

Trends Admin

Afrobeats Drama: Burna Boy–DJ Tunez Clash Fuels Wizkid Face-Off Speculation

The fallout from the nightclub altercation involving Burna Boy and DJ Tunez has deepened, fueling widespread speculation about a possible rift with Wizkid and reigniting conversations around rivalry at the top of Afrobeats.

What initially appeared to be a disagreement over music selection at a Lagos nightlife venue has now escalated into a major talking point across the Nigerian entertainment industry. The controversy is closely tied to DJ Tunez’s longstanding professional relationship with Wizkid, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

According to multiple accounts, the incident began when Wizkid’s songs were repeatedly played during the event—reportedly against the wishes of Burna Boy and his entourage. Eyewitness reports suggest tensions quickly rose, leading to a heated exchange that eventually turned physical, drawing attention from other guests and security personnel.

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While DJ Tunez claimed he was attacked during the altercation, Burna Boy has strongly denied the allegation, insisting the encounter was strictly a one-on-one confrontation. The situation took another turn when Burna Boy shared a video of himself dancing to the same Wizkid track linked to the dispute—an action many fans interpreted as a subtle but provocative response.

Further fueling the narrative, Burna Boy reportedly made remarks perceived as a challenge to Wizkid, intensifying online reactions and fan debates. However, Wizkid has remained publicly silent, a move that industry watchers say could either calm tensions or build anticipation for a potential response.

The controversy has also drawn institutional attention, with the Nigerian DJ Association announcing a temporary ban on Burna Boy’s music pending an investigation. The decision has sparked mixed reactions, highlighting divisions within the industry over how the situation should be handled.

At a broader level, the incident has revived long-standing discussions about Afrobeats rivalry, industry alliances, and brand dominance, particularly between Burna Boy and Wizkid—two global stars whose careers have been marked by both mutual respect and subtle competition.

For now, there is no confirmed face-off between Burna Boy and Wizkid, but the growing tension underscores the fragile dynamics within Nigeria’s music scene. Observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the situation de-escalates or evolves into a more pronounced rivalry.

Afrobeats Drama: Burna Boy–DJ Tunez Clash Fuels Wizkid Face-Off Speculation

Entertainment

EFCC, Police Investigate Blessing CEO Over Alleged ₦300m Cancer Scam

Published

3 days ago

April 11, 2026

Trends Admin

Nigerian social media influencer Blessing CEO

EFCC, Police Investigate Blessing CEO Over Alleged ₦300m Cancer Scam

Social media personality Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, is facing a deepening legal crisis as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Nigeria Police Force intensify investigations into allegations of cancer fraud, forgery, and financial misconduct.

The probe follows multiple petitions accusing the influencer of allegedly falsifying a cancer diagnosis and using a doctored medical report to solicit public donations, sparking outrage across Nigeria’s social media space.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed receipt of a petition and said it is awaiting statements from complainants before proceeding with a full investigation. Police spokesperson Edefa Bright stated that due process would be followed in determining the next line of action.

Similarly, the EFCC, through its spokesperson Dele Oyewale, disclosed that the anti-graft agency has begun reviewing allegations of financial fraud and cybercrime offences, noting that its findings will guide further steps.

The controversy began after Blessing CEO publicly claimed she was battling stage four cancer, drawing sympathy and financial support from followers. However, inconsistencies in her story triggered widespread skepticism and backlash, prompting scrutiny of the medical documents she shared online.

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The Nigerian Medical Association in Delta State later disowned the histology report linked to her, revealing that the document actually belonged to Deborah Mbara, a verified cancer survivor. According to the association, the report was issued in May 2025 by a diagnostic centre in Asaba following a confirmatory breast cancer test.

Mbara subsequently accused the influencer of altering her medical report and using it to raise funds from unsuspecting members of the public. She explained that she had shared the document with Blessing CEO in good faith after the influencer requested it for comparison.

In a twist, Blessing CEO later retracted her earlier claim of having stage four cancer during an interview with Egungun of Lagos. She admitted receiving about ₦13 million in donations but maintained that she did not owe anyone an apology, a stance that has further fueled public outrage.

However, legal counsel to the complainant, Sunny Anyanwu, alleged that the influencer may have generated over ₦300 million from the alleged scheme. He claimed that funds were routed through multiple bank accounts, including one allegedly created specifically for the fundraising exercise.

In a formal petition to the EFCC, the lawyer argued that the alleged actions violate provisions of the Cybercrime Act, 2015, and other applicable laws, demanding that the influencer be investigated and compelled to refund all monies collected.

Legal experts have also weighed in, with Senior Advocate of Nigeria Monday Ubani describing the alleged conduct as obtaining money under false pretence, a criminal offence under Nigerian law. He called for prosecution if investigations confirm the allegations.

The Delta State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, led by Israel Adaigho, has expressed readiness to testify if required, emphasising the need to protect the integrity of medical professionals.

Similarly, consultant pathologist A. O. Odigwe, who reportedly issued the original report, said further action would depend on the outcome of ongoing investigations.

The Nigerian Cancer Society has also condemned the alleged false claims, warning that such actions undermine genuine cancer advocacy and erode public trust in health-related fundraising.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to get a fresh response from Blessing CEO were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to her remained unanswered.

The case has ignited nationwide debate around online fundraising scams, influencer accountability, and misuse of sensitive medical information, with growing calls for stricter regulations in Nigeria’s digital space.

EFCC, Police Investigate Blessing CEO Over Alleged ₦300m Cancer Scam

Entertainment

Hip-Hop Pioneer Afrika Bambaataa Dies at 68 After Battle With Cancer

Published

4 days ago

April 10, 2026

Trends Admin

Hip-Hop Pioneer Afrika Bambaataa

Hip-Hop Pioneer Afrika Bambaataa Dies at 68 After Battle With Cancer

The global hip-hop community has been thrown into mourning following the death of legendary DJ and cultural pioneer Afrika Bambaataa, who has died at the age of 68.

His death was confirmed by the Hip Hop Alliance, which described him as a foundational figure who helped shape hip-hop into a global cultural movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and fun.

According to multiple reports, including entertainment outlet TMZ, Bambaataa died on Thursday in Pennsylvania from complications linked to cancer.

Born Lance Taylor in the Bronx, New York, Bambaataa rose from the post-industrial streets of the Bronx during the 1970s, a period widely regarded as the birthplace of hip-hop culture. His early exposure to the Black liberation movement heavily influenced his artistic and political worldview.

In 1973, he co-founded the Universal Zulu Nation, an international collective dedicated to promoting hip-hop as a tool for peaceful expression, youth empowerment, and cultural identity. The movement played a major role in shaping the global spread of hip-hop culture across music, dance, and street art.

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Before his musical breakthrough, Bambaataa was once affiliated with the Black Spades gang, but later redirected his influence toward community organisation and cultural activism, helping steer young people away from violence.

His 1982 single “Planet Rock” became a defining moment in hip-hop history, blending electronic sounds with rap and helping pioneer what would later influence genres such as electro, techno, and modern dance music.

The Hip Hop Alliance praised his impact, with executive director Reverend Dr Kurtis Blow Walker describing him as central to transforming the Bronx into “the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world.”

Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Bambaataa collaborated with influential figures including James Brown and John Lydon. He also contributed to socially conscious projects such as the anti-apartheid anthem “Sun City” in 1985.

However, his legacy was later complicated by serious allegations of sexual abuse dating back decades. He denied the accusations, describing them as an attempt to damage his reputation. In 2016, he stepped down as leader of the Universal Zulu Nation amid the controversy.

In 2025, reports indicated he lost a civil case involving allegations of child sexual abuse and trafficking after failing to appear in court, according to legal filings reported by international media outlets.

The Hip Hop Alliance acknowledged that while his contributions to music and culture remain historically significant, his legacy has been the subject of ongoing debate within the global hip-hop community.

Despite the controversies surrounding his later years, Afrika Bambaataa remains widely recognised as one of the founding architects of hip-hop culture, whose influence helped shape the genre into a worldwide phenomenon.