Exclusive Interview: Portable Blasts Fela Kuti’s Activism, Urges Nigerians to Focus on Personal Survival
In a bombshell interview with the Echoo Room podcast, sensational Nigerian singer, Portable, has sparked controversy by asserting that legendary musician Fela Kuti would have lived longer if he had minded his business and not fought for Nigeria.
Portable’s scathing critique of Kuti’s activism came as a surprise to many, with the singer claiming that fighting for the country only leads to suffering and no tangible results. He emphasized that individuals should prioritize their own well-being and that of their loved ones over activism.
The singer, known for his hit song “Zazoo Zehh,” was candid about his perspective, saying, “If Fela had minded his business a bit, he would have lived longer, but he was fighting the government. After God na government, even our parents who fought the same government were hungry, and till now we’re still hungry.”
When asked to elaborate, Portable stressed that Nigerians should focus on personal survival and take care of their immediate needs rather than fighting for a seemingly distant or abstract cause. He shared a personal anecdote, stating, “I, for instance, cannot ignore my wife and family and come and take care of you. When you are okay, your family will be okay, just feed your family and your neighbors.”
The singer’s views have sparked widespread debate on social media, with some agreeing with his sentiments and others lambasting him for disrespecting Kuti’s legacy. Kuti, who died in 1997, was a fierce advocate for Nigerian unity and human rights, and his music continues to inspire activism and social change.
Regardless of the controversy, Portable’s comments serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for personal survival in Nigeria. His message of prioritizing one’s own well-being over activism is sure to spark further debate and introspection among Nigerians.
Watch the full interview above on Portable’s bold assertion.