Nigerian street pop artist Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, has yet again found himself in the center of public debate after taking a new approach to political endorsements as the 2027 general elections draw closer. The outspoken singer caught attention by making a bold statement about how he would decide which presidential candidate receives his backing.
Portable’s “Cash for Endorsement” Strategy
In a recent Instagram video, Portable publicly announced that he would support whichever presidential aspirant is ready to financially incentivise him. He told his followers quite bluntly that his vote—and the votes of his supporters—would go to whoever offers him money first, stating his intentions without mincing words.
According to Portable, “My fans, vote whoever you want. It was before I was saying otherwise. I will only vote for anyone who gives me money for the 2027 elections. Whoever drops money first between Peter Obi and Tinubu or PDP is the one I will endorse, and I will make sure my fans vote for him. I can’t go about hungry; vote for your helper.”
Alliances Hinged on Financial Offerings
The singer emphasized that the political party or candidate doesn’t matter—whether it is Peter Obi of Labour Party, President Bola Tinubu of the ruling APC, or a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenger, the first to provide tangible financial support is the one he will throw his weight behind, bringing his fandom along.
Portable’s comments have come under scrutiny against the backdrop of Nigeria’s evolving political culture, where endorsement by celebrities can influence millions of young voters. This bold “cash before support” approach has sparked questions about ethics, transactional politics, and the impact of influencers on democracy.
Reflecting on Previous Political Encounters
This new public position comes just months after Portable aired his disappointment with Peter Obi during an event in Benin City, Edo State. Portable claimed that while President Tinubu had once “blessed” him, Peter Obi acknowledged him only with a handshake and no financial gift—even though, as Portable noted, Obi was flying economy class and he himself was in first class. The singer’s candor about such encounters highlights deep-seated themes in Nigeria’s celebrity-politics dynamics, where artists often expect transactional relationships.
Growing Ties with the Tinubu Political Circle
Back in July, Portable was seen with Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu. Following their meeting, the singer showered praises on Seyi, asserting that his life had improved as a result of the connection. He also publicly encouraged his fans to believe things would improve for Nigerians under the Tinubu-led administration—a move that many interpreted as a sign of Portable’s political leanings at the time.
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Public Reactions: From Admiration to Outrage
Portable’s “vote for the highest bidder” speech set off a wave of responses across social media, reflecting a spectrum of opinions about money, politics, and celebrity influence in Nigeria. Here are some of the most notable reactions from X (formerly Twitter):
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@tobathenurse: “Portable has campaigned for APC, PDP and Accord party. A true definition of a non-partisan Nigerian, anywhere money drop 😂😂😂.”
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@finkventures: “Shishi you no go see for Peter Obi hand.”
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@BetwizadTips: “This Weyrey is part of the reasons Nigeria is in a mess 🤦🏽♂️.”
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@ivoh_ivoh: “The exact mindset of all the Tinubu supporters. Just empty heads with large followers, look at them and you will agree with me.🤣”
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@Meekofweb3: “How much is our own share if they give you money? You can’t endorse any candidate for anyone this coming election. Nigerians will decide.”
What This Says About Celebrity Influence in Nigerian Politics
Nigeria, like many countries in Africa and worldwide, sees celebrities playing larger roles in political discourse and campaigning. Musicians, actors, and influencers have significant sway, especially among youth. Portable’s recent remarks have reopened ongoing debates about the nature and impact of such endorsements—should celebrities set an example of independent, value-driven choices, or is it fair for endorsements to become transactional?
A Lagos-based political analyst, who preferred not to be named, weighed in: “When popular musicians turn their endorsements into a marketplace, it exposes the flaws in our political culture. But it’s also a reflection of society—a transactional approach isn’t unique, it’s just more visible when an artist says it out loud.”
Comparisons With The Past: Is This a New Trend?
Portable is not the first Nigerian artist to openly tie endorsements to material incentives, though his bluntness is rare. Over the last two decades, Nigerian music and film stars have participated in political campaigns for a variety of reasons—from patriotic motivation to personal gain. However, growing transparency and social media visibility means such declarations are now immediately debated—sometimes sparking criticism, other times underlying the everyday reality for many less-privileged Nigerians who see elections as a time to “eat their own share.”
Economic Realities and Political Choices
For some, Portable’s statement is a candid reflection of the circumstances faced by working-class Nigerians who sometimes view elections through the lens of immediate survival rather than long-term policy impact. The singer’s reference to going hungry resonates with many who expect direct benefits from politicians, not abstract promises. Yet, this approach raises concern about leadership quality and accountability, fueling an ongoing debate over whether Nigerian politics rewards genuine service or financial transaction.
Is Portable’s Approach Harmless Fun or a Dangerous Precedent?
To critics, Portable is simply reinforcing negative stereotypes about Nigerian politics being “for sale to the highest bidder.” To supporters and fans, he’s saying what many are too shy to voice—the need for politicians to connect with, and materially support, the grassroots. Others believe Portable’s approach is part entertainment, part social commentary, and that ultimately, the real decision lies in the hands of the electorate.
Connecting to Broader African and Global Debates
This story isn’t confined to Nigeria. Across Africa and worldwide, the question of how influencers shape voter choices—and whether money has too much sway—continues to be relevant. Portable’s stance may prompt conversations beyond Nigeria’s borders, including in Ghana and other West African countries, about the intersection of celebrity culture, wealth, and democracy.
What’s Next for Portable and Voter Decision-Making?
As 2027 approaches, it remains to be seen if Portable will maintain this unapologetic position or backtrack as campaigns evolve. What is clear is that his statements have sparked much-needed discussion about values and motivations in Nigerian elections, challenging both fans and critics to reflect on what shapes their political choices. Ultimately, as one social media user put it, “Nigerians will decide.”
What do you think: Should Nigerian artists be open about negotiating endorsements, or do such declarations hurt our democracy? How much should celebrities influence your vote? Share your thoughts in the comments—your voice matters!
