Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred outrage after declaring that his political support in the 2027 general elections will go to whichever candidate or party offers him money first.
In a viral video posted on social media, the street-pop artist was asked about his preparedness for the next election.
He responded that his loyalty would not be tied to ideology or manifestos but to financial inducement.
“Anybody wey give me money na who I go follow. If APC bring money first, na APC I go support. If PDP pay first, I go follow them. Even if na Peter Obi, once he give me money first, I go tell my fans to vote for him,” Portable said in pidgin English.
The singer added that people should vote for “anybody wey help your life,” insisting that survival takes precedence over political conviction.
His comments immediately sparked backlash, with many Nigerians condemning the statement as an endorsement of vote buying, a practice widely criticized for undermining the country’s democracy.
Critics on social media argued that celebrities with large followings should promote informed choices rather than encourage financial inducement as the basis for political support.
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Vote buying has remained a recurring concern in Nigeria’s elections, despite provisions in the Electoral Act criminalising the practice.
Observers say economic hardship and poverty often make citizens vulnerable to inducements, a challenge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and anti-graft agencies continue to battle.
Portable, who has a history of courting controversy with provocative remarks, has not retracted his comments despite the criticism.
Political parties and frontline figures expected to contest in 2027 have yet to formally respond to the musician’s declaration.
The statement comes as preparations gradually build toward the next general election, with opposition figures weighing coalition strategies and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) looking to consolidate power.