Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, recently found himself at the center of a dramatic altercation with a businessman at a shopping mall in Canada.
The incident, which was captured on video by bystanders, has since gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.
The clash reportedly began when Portable, known for his outspoken and flamboyant personality, encountered the businessman during what seemed to be a casual shopping trip.
Eyewitnesses claim the two men exchanged heated words before the situation escalated into a full-blown argument.
Portable, dressed in his characteristic eccentric attire, appeared visibly agitated as he gestured animatedly, while the businessman, whose identity remains undisclosed, maintained a firm stance, refusing to back down.
Although the exact cause of the disagreement remains unclear, some onlookers speculated that it stemmed from a misunderstanding over a comment or action that was perceived as disrespectful by one party.
Others have suggested that the disagreement might have been fueled by an issue of cultural miscommunication, given that both individuals come from vastly different backgrounds.
The commotion quickly drew the attention of shoppers and mall security, who attempted to defuse the tense situation.
Several videos circulating online show security personnel stepping in to mediate between the two men, urging them to remain calm and resolve the matter amicably.
Portable, however, seemed unwilling to let the issue slide, as he continued to voice his grievances loudly, attracting even more attention from passersby.
In typical fashion, the singer did not shy away from the cameras, addressing the crowd and sharing his version of events, though much of his speech was peppered with his signature blend of Yoruba and Pidgin English.
The businessman, on the other hand, appeared more reserved, refraining from engaging further in the public spectacle.
As the altercation unfolded, fans of the singer who were present at the scene attempted to show their support, cheering him on and calling out his popular catchphrases.
However, not everyone in the crowd was amused, with some criticizing Portable’s behavior, accusing him of being unnecessarily confrontational and unprofessional.
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many users weighing in on Portable’s conduct and the broader implications of such public outbursts.
Some fans have defended the singer, arguing that he has always been unapologetically himself and that his fiery personality is part of what makes him unique.
Others, however, have called for him to exercise greater self-control, particularly in international settings where his actions could impact perceptions of Nigerians abroad.
“Portable needs to realize that as a public figure, his actions reflect not just on himself but also on the country he represents,” one Twitter user wrote.
Another commented, “This is not the first time Portable has been involved in public drama. It’s becoming a pattern, and it’s not a good look.”
Portable, who shot to fame with his hit single Zazoo Zeh, has built a reputation for being one of the most controversial figures in the Nigerian music industry.
He is no stranger to controversy, having previously been involved in several high-profile disputes with fellow artists, promoters, and even law enforcement authorities in Nigeria.
Despite the backlash, the singer has managed to maintain a loyal fan base, many of whom admire his raw talent, resilience, and ability to stay true to himself.
In the wake of the shopping mall incident, Portable took to his social media platforms to address the situation, posting a series of videos in which he reiterated his side of the story.
The singer claimed that he had been provoked by the businessman, whom he described as “disrespectful” and “arrogant.”
He also accused the businessman of looking down on him because of his background, insisting that he would not tolerate any form of disrespect, regardless of the setting.
“I no dey look face,” Portable declared in one of the videos.
“If you talk anyhow, you go collect. Na so I be, and I no go change for anybody.”
His comments have further fueled the ongoing debate, with some applauding his boldness and others urging him to adopt a more diplomatic approach in handling conflicts.
The businessman involved in the altercation has yet to issue a public statement, leaving many questions unanswered about his perspective on what transpired.
Meanwhile, the management of the shopping mall has reportedly expressed concerns about the disruption caused by the incident, emphasizing the need for all patrons to adhere to a standard of decorum while on the premises.
This latest controversy is unlikely to dent Portable’s career significantly, as the singer has proven time and again that he thrives on the attention generated by his antics, both on and off the stage.
However, it does raise important questions about the responsibilities of public figures and the impact of their behavior on their brand and public perception.
For now, Portable continues to ride the wave of fame, unbothered by the criticism and undeterred by the challenges that come with his celebrity status.
Whether this incident will lead to any lasting consequences for the singer remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Portable knows how to keep people talking.
In an industry where staying relevant often requires a mix of talent, charisma, and controversy, Portable has mastered the art of keeping his name in the headlines.
As the dust begins to settle on this latest drama, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see what the singer does next.
For better or worse, Portable’s journey in the spotlight remains as unpredictable as it is entertaining, and his clash with the businessman in Canada is just another chapter in the ongoing saga of his eventful career.
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