Controversial Nigerian artist Portable has stirred fresh debate in entertainment circles with shocking claims about using supernatural powers to manipulate romantic relationships, specifically admitting to employing “jazz” (traditional African magic) to control a former girlfriend. The revelation came during a candid Instagram Live session with media personality Daddy Freeze, following his recent split from girlfriend Queen Dami.
The “Zazu” hitmaker, whose real name is Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, offered a startling glimpse into his approach to relationships, declaring his status as a “Babalawo” (traditional spiritualist) and asserting that this identity influences his romantic interactions. During the session, Portable detailed a specific instance where he allegedly used supernatural means to maintain control over a relationship with a fan-turned-girlfriend.
According to Portable’s account, the relationship began through a mutual connection with fellow musician Don Rhymes. The artist described his systematic approach to the relationship, which started with what he termed a “security check” – examining his partner’s phone for what he considered incriminating information about her past relationships.
The controversial singer’s admission has sparked intense discussion about consent, control, and the role of traditional practices in modern relationships. His detailed description of allegedly using supernatural means to bind his partner to him, only releasing her when he lost interest, has raised serious concerns about relationship dynamics and personal autonomy.
Portable talks about tying his wife down with juju 🥴 pic.twitter.com/qXD1RkzlNF
— OLAMIDE 🌸💖 (@Olamide0fficial) December 18, 2024
Portable’s brazen account included claims that his former partner would have remained under his influence had he chosen to maintain the alleged spiritual hold. This assertion has prompted widespread debate about the intersection of traditional beliefs and contemporary relationship ethics in Nigerian society.
The timing of these revelations is particularly noteworthy as it follows his recent separation from Queen Dami, though the specific relationship he discussed in the interview appears to be from an earlier period. His willingness to publicly discuss such controversial practices has added another layer to his already colorful public persona.
The artist’s claims have generated significant social media discourse, with many questioning the ethical implications of using supernatural means to control romantic partners. Others have expressed skepticism about the veracity of his statements, suggesting they might be another instance of the performer’s known penchant for controversial statements to maintain public attention.
Beyond the immediate controversy, Portable’s statements have opened up broader discussions about relationship dynamics in Nigerian entertainment circles and the persistent influence of traditional practices in modern relationships. His casual admission of surveilling partners’ phones and past relationships has also sparked debate about privacy and trust in romantic relationships.
The incident has highlighted the complex interplay between traditional beliefs and modern relationship expectations in contemporary Nigerian society. While some view such practices as problematic and controlling, others see them as extensions of traditional cultural practices, leading to heated debates about cultural preservation versus personal autonomy.
As news of Portable’s claims continues to circulate, relationship experts and social commentators have begun weighing in on the implications of such behavior for healthy relationship dynamics. The incident has become a flashpoint for discussions about consent, control, and the boundaries of acceptable behavior in romantic relationships.
The controversy adds to Portable’s growing list of headline-making statements and behaviors, further cementing his reputation as one of Nigerian entertainment’s most unpredictable figures. Whether these latest revelations will impact his career or public standing remains to be seen, but they have certainly contributed to important conversations about relationship ethics in contemporary Nigerian society.
