Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has once again found himself embroiled in public controversy.
What began as a heated online exchange with social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has escalated into a bitter feud exposing old allegations and new threats.
The saga unfolds amidst Nigeria’s ongoing economic struggles and rising political tensions.
The Feud Ignites: Portable Takes on VDM over Tinubu Criticism
The conflict between Portable and VDM intensified over several days.
It started when Portable criticized VDM for cruel remarks against President Bola Tinubu, whose administration faces scrutiny for its handling of Nigeria’s harsh economic climate.
Portable branded VDM’s comments “unnecessary” and accused him of stirring trouble by dragging the unresolved Mohbad case back into public discourse.
VDM responded by dredging up a previously unseen video that allegedly captured Portable being physically assaulted in connection with accusations of theft of a phone and tricycle.
This resurfacing of a dark chapter in Portable’s past shifted the online battle into more personal territory.
Portable’s Retaliation: Diss Tracks and Private Leaks
Refusing to remain silent, Portable fired back. He leaked private videos allegedly featuring VDM in compromising situations and dropped a diss track aimed squarely at the social activist.
Both men traded insults and accusations, each intensifying the verbal conflict.
Yet, VDM remained unshaken, showing no sign of backing down.
Portable grew increasingly desperate to clear his reputation and took an unexpected step.
A Desperate Plea: Portable Calls on Former Boss Ija Omode
Portable turned to his ex-mentor and former boss, Ija Omode.
In a leaked chat, he demanded that Ija Omode publicly release a video to exonerate him from the theft allegations.
Portable pleaded that the “thief” label was damaging his career and image.
The chat ended ominously, with Portable warning of curses and consequences should Ija Omode fail to intervene.
This move adds complexity to the drama.
It suggests even Portable fears the weight of past accusations and struggles to protect his public image amid worsening attacks.
Public Reaction: Mixed Sympathy and Mockery
The feud has polarized social media users.
Many sympathize with Portable’s desire to clear his name, while others mock the unrelenting clash.
Some fans admire Portable’s boldness in fighting back and “using madness to fight madness.”
Others advise him to end the “wahala” (trouble), urging peace over chaos.
Here are some reactions:
- @ghs.beatz: “But why is it taking so long for him to make a video?”
- @official_kakalito: “Sometimes it’s good to use madness to reply madness up VDM.”
- @joke_alabi_: “Uncle Portable, when are you going to stop wahala? We like you oo.”
- @princedanny28: “If VDM comes for you, you’re a victim. If you come for him, you are also a victim.”
- @ebendaboss: “Go and make apology video for VDM.”
- @__thatslimgirl: “Which one be A him do video again? Pitipiti don visit Portable.”
The polarized opinions highlight a broader public fascination with drama, yet point to the toll such conflicts take on celebrity reputations.
The Unresolved Theft Allegations
Central to this drama are the alleged theft accusations.
Portable’s past involvement in theft has lingered in the shadows, resurfacing at inconvenient moments.
Critics argue that his demands for public clearing of his name may be a tactical distraction from deeper issues.
Some question why Ija Omode, who reportedly wields significant influence over Portable’s career, has not stepped forward sooner.
The delay feeds speculation of internal disagreements or intentional silence.
Personalizing the Conflict: Power Struggles and Image Battles
This feud exposes the ruthless power struggles within Nigeria’s entertainment and social commentary scenes.
Portable’s rise from humble beginnings is marked by both musical success and unending controversies.
VDM, as a vocal activist, has built a reputation as an uncompromising critic.
Their clash reflects broader themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in an industry built on image.
Portable’s call for protection from a former boss underscores the fragile nature of celebrity reputations in a social media era where past mistakes can be weaponized instantly.
The Role of Social Media: Amplifier and Trial Ground
Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), have magnified the feud.
Rapid sharing of videos, leaked chats, and diss tracks fuels public interest and fuels division.
This instant judgment platform often sidelines facts in favor of sensationalism.
The case poses questions about the fairness of social media trials and the impact on those involved especially when accusations from years ago are resurrected without legal resolution.
A Wahala That Won’t End Soon
It invites scrutiny into long-held theft allegations, the role of former mentors, and how public figures navigate crises.
The saga continues to unfold in Lagos and online, captivating Nigerians with its mix of controversy, accusations, and personal battles.
As tensions escalate, calls grow louder for accountability, truth, and a resolution that restores dignity or exposes deception.
For now, Portable’s public demand remains unanswered, fueling speculation and the inevitable next round of online wahala.
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