Singer Portable faces backlash for slapping preacher at his bar

Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred controversy online after a video emerged showing him slapping a preacher outside his bar in Sango Ota, Ogun State.

The incident, which took place on Monday, has ignited a storm of reactions from social media users.

The video, streamed live on Instagram by Portable himself, captures the singer’s heated confrontation with a middle-aged man who was reportedly preaching at his bar.

In the footage, Portable is seen angrily questioning the preacher’s presence: “Why disturb my customers on a Monday morning?” He then proceeds to slap the man, adding, “This is how they spoil my business and disturb my business. Are you crazy? Early on a Monday, you’re spoiling my business.

I had prayed for myself before leaving home.” Portable then demands that the preacher leave the premises.

The singer’s actions have been met with significant backlash. Social media users have condemned Portable for his aggressive behaviour. On X.com (formerly known as Twitter), many have criticized him for using the hashtag #delemon.

One user, #jbrandy_YBNL, expressed their disapproval, stating, “Why will Portable slap a Pastor? This Bro Doesn’t deserve the fame we gave him.”

Another user, #TemitayoOdede, conveyed their shock, tweeting, “This guy Portable don Dey do too much ooo. Like see the effrontery, slapping a man of God. What could he have done for him to slap that man?”

Despite the criticism, some users have defended Portable. A supporter using the hashtag #delemon argued, “I heard a lot of people saying this is assault and he should get a lawyer. If the man is a genuine Man of God, Portable can’t escape what is coming to him. You slap a servant of the living God? The man doesn’t even need to utter a word to God; he’s done for.”

The incident has reignited discussions about Portable’s controversial public behaviour and the limits of celebrity conduct. The debate continues as the video remains widely shared and discussed online.