Nigerian street-hop sensation, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has ignited a fresh controversy in the entertainment industry by publicly calling out fellow artist Zlatan Ibile over his silence following the tragic death of Afrobeats star Mohbad.
In a new video that surfaced online on July 3, 2025, Portable criticized Zlatan for allegedly distancing himself from the late Mohbad and failing to speak out since the singer’s untimely passing in September 2023. The Zazuu crooner did not hold back in his comments, labeling Zlatan a “fake friend” and questioning his loyalty to Mohbad during his lifetime.
Portable, known for his outbursts and raw delivery, accused Zlatan of using his family—specifically his mother—as an excuse to stay silent during one of the industry’s most emotional losses.
“You say your mummy begged you not to talk? That’s your excuse? Real friends don’t need permission to do what’s right,” Portable ranted in Yoruba.
“Mohbad called you a brother, but when he needed you to speak, you went quiet!”
The video has since gone viral, sparking widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.
Mohbad, born Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, died under controversial circumstances on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27. The former Marlian Records artist had, prior to his death, voiced concerns about bullying, intimidation, and industry betrayal.
His sudden passing led to public protests, demands for investigations, and calls for accountability within the Nigerian music industry. However, several big names have remained relatively silent on the matter—something Portable has repeatedly criticized.
Zlatan, while once seen as a close industry ally of Mohbad, has not made any detailed public statement about his late colleague’s death since the initial outpouring of condolences in 2023.
Reactions to Portable’s statements have been divided:
Some fans applauded him for having the courage to say what others wouldn’t.
“Portable may be loud, but he’s saying what’s on everyone’s mind,” a fan commented on Instagram.
Others slammed him for being insensitive or using Mohbad’s name for clout.
“He’s doing too much. This is not the way to honor a late friend,” said another critic on X.
Zlatan, as of the time of publication, has not responded to Portable’s remarks.
Portable has remained a controversial figure since his breakout in 2021 with the hit Zazuu Zeh. His career has been dotted with both chart-topping singles and frequent public outbursts. He has clashed with artists such as Seyi Vibez, Poco Lee, and even Davido, often through live videos and social media rants.
Despite several run-ins with the law, including a 2025 court sentence for assault (which he avoided by paying a fine), Portable continues to command public attention with his unfiltered personality and street credibility.
Portable’s bold remarks have reignited conversation around artist loyalty, mental health, and industry silence in times of tragedy. While many entertainers avoid controversial topics to protect their brands, Portable’s willingness to confront peers continues to set him apart—for better or worse.
With Mohbad’s legacy still fresh in the minds of fans, Portable’s latest rant may further pressure Nigerian artists to take public stands in support of their late colleague, or at the very least, reflect on their silence.
