Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has finally explained why he publicly criticized YBNL boss Olamide for not signing him to his record label.
Speaking in a recent interview with Quincy Jonze on Echo Room, Portable expressed his frustration, comparing Olamide’s level of support to that of UK rapper Skepta, who he claims gave him more hands-on mentorship.
“Do you know why I can’t fight Skepta? He held my hands the way I’m currently holding your hand, but Olamide didn’t hold my hand like that. I was just running up and down without management. Tell Olamide that he only gave me ‘Zazu,’ and I used it to tour the whole world. He should have carried me along.”
The Zazu crooner lamented that Olamide had the chance to sign him but didn’t, and now, he believes he has outgrown YBNL. According to him, only Sony Music can sign him at this stage in his career.
“Olamide can’t sign me now—I’m too big. Only Sony Music can sign me. Olamide is my helper, but back then, he could have signed me. Now, he can only take me to where I’ll get a bigger deal. I swear, I am blessed.”
Portable also referenced Asake, another YBNL signee, claiming that his success today is due to a deal he signed when he was still coming up.
“When Olamide was meant to sign me, he didn’t, when I was still ignorant. Didn’t you hear what Asake said? He said the contract he signed then, he can never sign it now. I have grown too. They should do an O2 Arena show for me too. Asake copies all my dance steps, I wear heavy clothes of many yards, and he started doing the same.”
Despite his remarks, Portable clarified that he has no issues with Asake, insisting that calling people out only helps them gain publicity.
“I have no problem with Asake. He’s my friend. If I mention a person’s name, they should thank God. I am a blessing. Even if I insult someone, they will trend. If I praise someone, they will blow.”
Portable’s comments have once again sparked debates in the Nigerian music industry, with fans reacting to his claims about Olamide and Asake.
