Nigerian street-hop sensation Portable has once again set his sights on a grand ambition—headlining the iconic O2 Arena, a venue that has played a crucial role in the global ascent of Nigerian music.
In a recent interview on Echo Room with Quincy Jonze, Portable spoke candidly about his artistic growth and how he now believes he is deserving of such a monumental moment in his career. “I have evolved over the years. I’m not the same Portable that came into the industry. Now, I deserve to headline the O2 Arena,” he declared.
His bold proclamation comes at a time when Nigerian artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy have already made history at the venue, cementing Afrobeats’ influence on the international stage. Portable, known for his brash confidence and ability to command attention, is determined to add his name to that prestigious list, even if the journey to such a feat appears daunting.
His desire to perform at the O2 Arena, however, cannot be separated from his ongoing rivalry with Grammy-nominated Afrobeats star Asake. Earlier this year, Portable stirred controversy by accusing Asake of copying his dance moves, launching a mostly one-sided feud that has since escalated.
Beyond dance moves, he also alleged that Asake imitated his signature face tattoo, a claim that further fueled their public discord. While Asake has chosen to remain silent, Portable continues to fan the flames, using every opportunity to assert his uniqueness.
His competitive spirit is undeniable, and for him, headlining the O2 Arena would serve as the ultimate validation—not just of his talent, but of his status in an industry that he believes has not given him the recognition he deserves.
Controversy has long been Portable’s companion, and his headline-grabbing antics often overshadow his music. In a recent episode of his never-ending string of feuds, he set his sights on Fuji music legend King Saheed Osupa, whom he disparaged in a viral video.
While details of their fallout remain unclear, Portable’s tendency to pick fights with industry veterans and peers alike has made him a polarizing figure. His erratic outbursts have kept him in the public eye, but they have also invited trouble.
Earlier this year, the Ogun State Police declared him wanted for allegedly assaulting government officials. The singer later turned himself in and was granted bail, after which he assured the public that he would avoid further trouble. However, given his track record, many remain skeptical about his ability to stay out of controversy for long.
Portable’s history of feuds extends beyond Asake and Saheed Osupa. In the past, he has taken shots at industry figures like dancer Poco Lee and rapper Goya Menor, though he later reconciled with them. Even global Afrobeats heavyweight Davido has not been spared, as Portable once called him out for failing to collaborate with him.
Despite the turbulence that surrounds him, one thing remains certain—Portable is determined to carve out his space in Nigerian music on his own terms.
Whether he will achieve his dream of headlining the O2 Arena or remain confined to a cycle of controversy is yet to be seen, but his ability to stay relevant, for better or worse, is undeniable.
