Controversial Nigerian street-hop artist, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred yet another round of debates after declaring that his 2027 election support will go to the highest bidder.
The singer, known for his unapologetic statements and eccentric lifestyle, made the declaration in a viral Instagram video on Thursday, vowing that he would throw his weight behind any political party or candidate that offers him financial support ahead of the polls.
Addressing his followers, Portable was blunt in explaining why his 2027 election support would be tied to financial incentives.
According to him, it makes no sense to campaign for politicians without being compensated.
“I can’t be campaigning around and be hungry,” the Zazu Zeh crooner remarked. He added that his vote and endorsement would go to whichever candidate first meets his demand.
“My fans, hope your voter’s card are ready? We will be voting for any candidate that gives us money.
Election is starting soon. I’m voting for anyone that gives me money, that can help my life. I’m the owner of my life and my voter’s card.
Bring the money and let me help my people, the people are hungry,” Portable said.
The singer further emphasized that whether it was the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), or Labour Party’s Peter Obi, his loyalty would be up for sale if the price was right.
Portable’s declaration about his 2027 election support is not his first time linking politics with financial expectations.
During the 2023 presidential election, the singer openly campaigned for President Bola Tinubu, praising the APC candidate at rallies and on social media.
However, he later accused Tinubu of neglecting him financially after his victory.
In 2024, Portable called out the President for allegedly failing to “settle him,” despite his vocal support during the campaign.
His new stance suggests he has learned lessons from his past experiences, choosing now to prioritize financial reward upfront before pledging allegiance.
The video immediately went viral, sparking mixed reactions among Nigerians online.
Critics argued that Portable’s comments reinforce negative stereotypes about vote-buying and the monetization of Nigeria’s democratic process.
They warned that such statements, especially from celebrities with large followings, could normalize transactional politics among impressionable fans.
On the other hand, some sympathizers said the singer was only speaking the truth about the country’s political culture.
According to them, politicians often abandon their supporters after elections, and Portable’s insistence on upfront payment reflects the frustrations of ordinary citizens who feel neglected by leaders once in power.
Analysts say Portable’s vow to back the highest bidder underscores deeper challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy.
Vote-buying and electoral corruption have long plagued the system, with citizens often swayed by short-term financial gains rather than long-term governance considerations.
The singer’s blunt admission could be seen as a mirror of societal realities.
For decades, reports from election observers have documented instances where parties distribute cash, food, or other inducements to sway voters.
Portable’s statement, therefore, has reignited conversations about whether Nigerians should prioritize competence over incentives when making political choices.
Portable is not the first Nigerian musician to wade into politics, but his approach stands out.
While other artists such as Burna Boy, Falz, and Davido often use their platforms to call for accountability, Portable openly embraces transactional politics.
Observers worry that his 2027 election support could significantly sway some of his fanbase, particularly among young Nigerians in urban and semi-urban communities where his music enjoys strong followership.
At the same time, his controversial approach may also backfire, as political parties might distance themselves from openly associating with a candidate who openly admits to selling endorsements.
Portable’s vow to trade his 2027 election support to the highest bidder has once again placed him at the center of public attention.
While his blunt honesty resonates with some Nigerians frustrated by unfulfilled campaign promises, others believe his stance trivializes the democratic process and entrenches the culture of vote-buying.
As the 2027 general elections draw nearer, Portable’s declaration may continue to stir debates about the role of celebrities in politics, the ethics of endorsements, and the urgent need to tackle electoral corruption in Nigeria.
Whether his words were an attention-seeking stunt or a genuine reflection of his intentions, one thing remains certain: Portable has once again ensured his name remains part of the national conversation.
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