Controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, frequently makes headlines for his off‑stage antics as well as his music. His provocative comments have led to multiple police interrogations, yet he shows no intention of avoiding controversy. His latest track, “Kuku do Ritual,” has drawn sharp criticism for promoting the acquisition of wealth through any means, including money rituals. Given the increase in ritual killings and other moral decay in Nigeria, industry stakeholders argue that the singer should be held accountable.
The Muslim Rights Concern condemned the song and called on security agencies to investigate both the track and its creator. In a statement, the organization said: “Popular pop singer Habeeb Okikiola has released a new album titled ‘Kuku Do Ritual,’ in which part of the lyrics say, ‘Kuku do ritual. If you do ritual, you go die. If you no do ritual, you go die. Kuku do ritual.’ We find this song disgusting, detestable and egregious. It is a brazen assault on Nigerian and African values. Portable’s latest song reduces human life to the level of ordinary ants that can be stamped out without qualms or consequences. This song has the capacity to influence our young ones negatively and could destroy the future of the youth. Something must be done urgently.”
Entertainment lawyer Femi Njoku acknowledged the importance of artistic freedom but warned that music harmful to societal growth should be regulated. “I am a big believer in not limiting anyone’s creative license, as long as what they are doing is not illegal,” he told a correspondent. “However, if the music promotes vices that are inimical to societal growth and advancement, it is only right for a body like the NBC to regulate the content aired on our airwaves. We are at a time when ritual killings and other crimes are high, and certain music can aid these problems.”
Music enthusiast Emmanuel Daraloye emphasized that artists must be mindful of their messages, especially as Afrobeats gains global attention. “Portable may be speaking his truth, reflecting the frustration of many Nigerians,” he said. “Art never exists in a vacuum; it mirrors reality. Yet for the outside world, songs like this shape perceptions of the country and could make listeners wary of Nigeria.”
Finally, Pretty Okafor, President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, noted that although Portable is a member of the association, it lacks the authority to sanction musicians over their songs.
Comments are closed for this story.