Nigerian social media platforms were set ablaze this week when controversial singer Portable and popular crossdresser James Brown engaged in a bitter public feud that quickly escalated from a seemingly innocuous swimming video to deeply personal attacks. The confrontation, which played out in full view of their millions of followers, has become the latest high-profile celebrity clash in Nigeria’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
The heated exchange began when James Brown, known for his flamboyant persona and growing social media influence, posted a video of himself swimming. What might have remained a routine social media update quickly transformed into a viral moment when Portable, the “Zazuu” crooner known for his unpredictable outbursts, left a terse and dismissive comment under the post.
Your life don spoil,” wrote Portable, a comment that immediately drew attention from fans and set the stage for what would become an increasingly hostile back-and-forth between the two entertainers.
James Brown, rarely one to back down from confrontation, swiftly responded with a pointed jab at Portable’s controversial rise to fame: “See this fame miss road.” This retort, questioning the legitimacy and sustainability of Portable’s celebrity status, clearly struck a nerve with the singer.
The exchange rapidly deteriorated as both personalities abandoned any pretense of civility. Portable fired back with “Kuku go meet your friends Bõb,” an apparent reference to Bobrisky, another prominent Nigerian crossdresser who has had his own share of controversies and legal troubles in recent months.
Not to be outdone, James Brown targeted one of Portable’s most recognizable physical features – his numerous tattoos – responding with “Kuku go meet your tattoo artist for refund.” This personal attack on Portable’s appearance seemed designed to question his aesthetic choices and hit particularly close to home for the singer, who has often showcased his body art as part of his artistic identity.
The verbal sparring continued to escalate, with Portable labeling James Brown “Oloriburuku” – a Yoruba insult that roughly translates to “unfortunate person” or someone with a “cursed head.” James Brown responded in kind with “Ali ye baje, baba la wo omo ole oloriburuku, ko ni da fun ee,” a mix of Yoruba phrases carrying negative connotations and suggesting that things would not end well for Portable.
What began as a simple comment on a swimming video had transformed into a full-blown war of words that soon spilled over from the comment section to their respective social media stories. Portable, seemingly unwilling to let the matter rest, took to his Instagram story to broaden the scope of the conflict by bringing Bobrisky into the fray.
In a lengthy post, Portable claimed that Bobrisky had negatively influenced James Brown’s life and career trajectory. Na you spoil this guy life now him dey suffer no food no house to sleep come carry your guy before them lelokopa,” wrote Portable, suggesting that James Brown was struggling financially and lacked proper accommodation as a result of following Bobrisky’s path.
The singer continued his tirade by contrasting what he perceived as their “fake life” with his own authenticity: “na so I hear say you too no get house na so so fake life una dey use am real na man I be am proud of myself that’s why King Ochacho give me benz you’re my brotherhood.” In this statement, Portable not only questioned their lifestyle choices but also took the opportunity to boast about his own achievements, specifically mentioning receiving a Mercedes-Benz from his wealthy patron, King Ochacho.
This latest confrontation adds another chapter to Portable’s growing list of public feuds since his meteoric rise to fame following the success of his breakthrough single “Zazuu Zeh” featuring Olamide. The singer has previously clashed with various industry figures, from fellow musicians to promoters and even his own former associates.
For James Brown, who rose to prominence after a viral video in which he proclaimed “They didn’t catch me” following a police raid, this conflict represents another instance where he has had to defend his identity and choices in the public sphere. Having carved out a unique space for himself in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, James Brown has often faced criticism and ridicule but has consistently responded with defiance and a determination to remain visible.
Entertainment industry observers note that both personalities have built their brands partially on controversy and outspoken behavior, making such public confrontations almost inevitable. These are two individuals who understand the currency of attention in today’s social media-driven entertainment landscape,” noted a cultural commentator who preferred to remain anonymous. Whether planned or spontaneous, these kinds of clashes ultimately serve to keep both of them relevant in the public conversation.
The timing of this feud is particularly interesting as it comes during a period when both entertainers are working to expand their reach and influence. Portable has been attempting to establish himself as more than just a flash in the pan, releasing new music and seeking international collaborations. Meanwhile, James Brown has been building his brand beyond Nigeria, recently spending time in the United Kingdom and cultivating a more global audience.
As the dust settles on this particular confrontation, fans and critics alike are divided in their reactions. Some followers have expressed amusement at the exchange, treating it as entertainment in itself, while others have criticized both personalities for what they perceive as immature behavior unbecoming of public figures with significant young followings.
Whether this clash represents a genuine animosity or simply another calculated move in the attention economy of Nigerian entertainment remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that both Portable and James Brown understand that in the competitive world of social media influence, sometimes conflict generates more engagement than harmony.
As of this writing, neither party has indicated any intention to reconcile or de-escalate the situation, leaving open the possibility that this feud may continue to evolve in the coming days. For now, their millions of followers remain on high alert, waiting to see what the next chapter in this unexpected celebrity clash might bring.
