Portable Declares Himself 5th After Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide

Controversial singer sparks debate with bold ranking claim amid ongoing feud with Bella Shmurda over collaboration rejection

Controversial Nigerian artist Habeeb Okikiolu Badmus, professionally known as Portable, has publicly declared himself the fifth-ranked musician in Nigeria’s music hierarchy, positioning himself directly after established superstars Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide.

The bold proclamation came during an Instagram video posted by the “Zazoo Zehh” hitmaker amid an escalating public dispute with fellow artist Bella Shmurda over collaboration possibilities.

“After Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy and Olamide, I’m next. EMILOKAN,” Portable declared in the video, using the Yoruba phrase meaning “it’s my turn” that gained political prominence during Nigeria’s 2023 elections.

The singer continued his self-assessment with confidence, stating: “After those four, EMILOKAN. I swear to God who made me I can sing. You can challenge me to any competition. Another singer who knows how to sing like that is Barry Jay and he inherited the gift from his father. I’m heavily talented and booming. I discovered myself before they discovered me.”

The controversy originated from Bella Shmurda’s recent appearance on the “Curiosity Made Me Ask” podcast hosted by Isbae U, where he explained his reluctance to collaborate with Portable. Shmurda cited musical incompatibility and a preference for avoiding drama as primary reasons for his decision.

“I just don’t see the connection in the music. I don’t want wahala, I want peace,” Shmurda stated during the podcast interview.

Portable’s response to the rejection was characteristically combative. In his Instagram video, he dismissed Bella Shmurda as a “failed musician” while highlighting his own international achievements.

“Anytime you want to do an interview, don’t mention my name again. You can’t feature me? I have been to America, London. It’s not about who blew first, it’s about who’s still blowing,” Portable declared.

The artist further escalated the dispute by questioning Shmurda’s career trajectory and financial capacity, stating that the “Cash App” singer couldn’t afford to feature him on a collaboration.

Portable’s self-ranking has generated significant discussion across social media platforms, with fans and industry observers debating the validity of his claims. The artist, known for his street credibility and controversial statements, has consistently positioned himself among Nigeria’s top-tier musicians despite mixed critical reception.

Since breaking into mainstream consciousness with “Zazoo Zehh” in 2021, Portable has maintained a high-profile presence in Nigerian entertainment, though his career has been marked by various controversies and public disputes with industry figures.

The current feud with Bella Shmurda represents another chapter in Portable’s often contentious relationship with fellow artists. His latest declaration suggests he views himself as having transcended his initial breakthrough success to achieve sustained relevance in Nigeria’s competitive music landscape.

Bella Shmurda, whose real name is Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi, rose to prominence with hits like “Vision 2020” and “Cash App,” establishing himself as a significant voice in Nigeria’s contemporary music scene. His decision to avoid collaboration with Portable reflects broader industry dynamics around artist associations and brand management.

The public nature of their disagreement highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s music industry, where collaboration rejections can spark significant social media disputes and impact artist relationships.

Neither artist’s representatives responded to requests for additional comment regarding the ongoing dispute or potential resolution efforts.