Portable Replies Skepta, Says Nigerian Celebrities Risk Arrest for Speaking Out

‎Nigerian street-hop singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has responded to recent comments by British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, who urged celebrities to use their platforms to speak aga!nst injustice and insecurity in Nigeria.

‎In a viral video making rounds on social media, Portable argued that celebrities living in Nigeria face significant r!sks when they publicly crit!cize the government or speak out on sensitive national issues.

‎Reacting directly to Skepta's appeal, Portable said Nigerian entertainers could face arrest or other forms of retaliation if they become outspoken about the country's challenges.

‎“Skepta is saying celebrities should speak. Did he want the Nigerian government to pick us? They will arrest us if we speak up. We only need help,” Portable said.

‎The singer added that Nigerians living abroad are in a better position to advocate for change because they are less vulnerable to government pressure.

‎“Nigerians in the diaspora should speak up because the Nigerian government can’t arrest them. I’m only concerned about money,” he stated.

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‎Portable further claimed that local celebrities risk oppression and restrictions, including possible passport seizures, if they become vocal critics of the authorities.

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‎His remarks came after Skepta shared a widely circulated message expressing concern over insecurity and injustice in Nigeria. The rapper referenced issues that have pers!sted since the #EndSARS movement and called on entertainers, influencers, and members of the international community to lend their voices to the situation.

‎“There is so much !njustice in Nigeria. Nigerians need help. We need people to speak up for us as well,” Skepta said, while urging greater global attention to the country's challenges.

‎The exchange has generated widespread debate online, with some Nigerians supporting Portable's concerns about the dangers of speaking out, while others argue that influential celebrities have a responsibility to use their platforms to advocate for social change.

‎The discussion comes amid growing public concern over insecurity, kidnappings, and governance issues across parts of the country, further fu£ling conversations about the role of celebrities in national advocacy and act!vism.