
Habeeb Okikiola, professionally known as Portable or Portable Zazu, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and entertainer who rose to fame with his breakout single “Zazu Zeh” in 2021. Known for his raw street energy, outspoken personality, and unpredictable behavior, Portable is one of the most controversial yet talked-about figures in Nigeria’s music industry.
Early Life and Background
Portable was born on March 12, 1994, in Ogun State, Nigeria. He was raised in a Muslim household by Mr. and Mrs. Okikiola, alongside his siblings. He hails from the Yoruba-speaking region of the country and belongs to the Southwestern ethnic group.
Growing up in a modest family, Portable was exposed to the realities of street life early on. He found inspiration in local rap legends like Dagrin, Olamide, QDot, and Lord of Ajasa, which motivated him to pursue a career in music. Though details of his formal education remain scarce, he reportedly studied science at a university in Delta State.
Rise to Fame and Music Career
Portable’s journey in music began in the underground street scene. However, his major breakthrough came in December 2021, when he released “Zazu Zeh” featuring popular dancer Poco Lee and YBNL boss Olamide. The song quickly went viral, catapulting Portable into the spotlight. The catchy chorus, dance moves, and street appeal made it a national sensation, amassing over 6 million views on YouTube within weeks.
He later shared the stage with Tiwa Savage at the Livespot X Festival, marking a turning point in his career. Since then, Portable has continued to release music and perform across Nigeria, becoming a
Awards and Endorsements
Despite his controversial reputation, Portable has earned industry recognition. In 2022, he received nominations for Rookie of the Year and Best Street Artist. By 2023, he bagged wins for Best New Artist and Artist of the Year. In a surprising leap, he was also reportedly nominated for a Grammy Award in 2025.
He has secured endorsement deals with companies like Odogwu Bitters, owned by Obi Cubana, and the luxury real estate firm Sujimoto.
Legal Issues and Controversies
Portable’s rise has been marked by numerous scandals:
- Assault and Arrests: In April 2023, he was arrested by Ogun State Police for failing to respond to an invitation over assault allegations. He later faced defamation charges and was held at the Okuara Correctional Center in Kwara State in 2025.
- Kenya Allegations: In January 2022, Kenyan media reported that Portable and his team were involved in alleged harassment of women during a visit to Nairobi. Though he later apologized, the incident drew widespread criticism.
- Feud with Poco Lee: Shortly after gaining fame, Portable accused Poco Lee of hijacking credit for the “Zazu Zeh” hit and withholding money sprayed on him by Wizkid during a performance. He later apologized to Poco Lee, Olamide, and his promoter Kogbagidi.
- Multiple Management Disputes: He parted ways with his promoter Kogbagidi and later clashed with his new team, accusing them of exploitation.
- Visa Denial: Portable was denied a Canadian visa after the show’s organizer, MC Morris, claimed his unstable behavior and repeated manager changes made him unfit to travel.
- Cultism Allegations: In July 2022, Portable claimed in a video that he founded the notorious “One Million Boys” gang. After police investigations, he retracted the statement, saying he was referring to his fanbase.
- Boxing Match With Akpi: In 2025, he challenged and defeated Speed Darlington (Akpi) in a boxing match sparked by a social media feud. Reports claimed Burna Boy promised ₦20 million if he beat Akpi, due to Akpi’s previous beef with the Afrobeats star.
Personal Life
Portable is a father of five children from different women, including a child with Nollywood actress Akinyanju Omobolarinde. Though often in the spotlight, he keeps details about his relationships relatively private.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Portable’s net worth is estimated at around $700,000, earned from music streams, live shows, endorsements, and social media activity. Details about his physical assets remain undisclosed.
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