Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has opened up on why many entertainers are reluctant to publicly criticize the state of insecurity and economic hardship in the country.
The singer said fear of persecution and possible arrest discourages celebrities from speaking out against government policies and the worsening situation in Nigeria.
Portable made the remarks while responding to comments by British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, who recently urged Nigerian celebrities to use their platforms to demand accountability and draw attention to the country's growing security and economic challenges.
According to the Zazu crooner, Nigerians living abroad are in a better position to criticize the government because they are beyond the immediate reach of local authorities. He argued that celebrities residing in Nigeria face greater risks if they become outspoken on sensitive national issues.
Speaking in a video broadcast, Portable said:
«“Skepta, God bless you for remembering and speaking for Nigeria. However, you saying we, Nigerian celebrities, should speak up and demand justice, do you want the Nigerian government to pick us? They will arrest us if we speak up.»
«“This government is oppressing us. Some of us are still being persecuted over our past remarks. We need help. We need support, not just prayers. Nigerians in diaspora should speak up because Nigerian government can’t arrest them from abroad. Those of us in Nigeria, if we speak, we will be in big trouble. They might even seize our passports if we, celebrities say what we are not supposed to say.»
«“So, I’m only concerned about how I can make money and better my own life. It is not like celebrities don’t care about Nigeria, but if we speak, they will persecute us. A lot of us are even tired of what is happening in Nigeria. But we can’t speak up. If we were in abroad, it would be safer to speak up.”»
Portable's comments have added to the ongoing conversation about the role of public figures in addressing national issues, particularly at a time when concerns over insecurity and economic hardship continue to dominate public discourse across the country.