Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, widely known by his stage name Portable, has stated he will invoke spiritual consequences against members of the Yoruba ethnic group who do not support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in the 2023 general elections.
In a video circulated online, the singer asserted that any Yoruba person working against Tinubu’s campaign would face judgment, specifically referencing the deities Ogun and Sango (often associated with thunder). He further alleged that he had been engaged by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to mobilise support, claiming he had been provided with party apparel and would soon distribute campaign materials like rice and vegetable oil.
Portable urged voters to support Tinubu for national peace, framing the election choice as one between peace and conflict. His comments directly link ethnic loyalty to electoral support and introduce spiritual sanction as a motivator for political action.
This incident highlights the frequent intersection of ethnicity, religion, and politics in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. The Yoruba are one of the country’s largest ethnic groups, and their voting patterns are closely watched in national elections. Portable, a rising star in the Afrobeats scene known for his hit “Zazu,” has previously courted attention with his public statements and political affiliations.
The APC, which came to power in 2015, is seeking to retain the presidency with Tinubu as its candidate. The party’s campaign strategies often involve leveraging influential figures from various sectors, including entertainment, to reach diverse demographics.
The use of spiritual threats in political discourse is a sensitive issue in Nigeria, a nation with deep religious convictions. Such statements risk exacerbating ethnic tensions and undermining secular political debate. The video has sparked reactions on social media, with many condemning the conflation of traditional beliefs with partisan pressure.
As the February 2023 elections approach, the role of celebrities and community leaders in shaping voter behaviour remains significant. This event underscores the challenges of maintaining a campaign focused on policy and national issues amid powerful ethnic and spiritual narratives. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and civil society groups continue to advocate for peaceful, issue-based campaigning across all parties.
