Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has shared details of his diff!cult upbringing, revealing that he sold sachet water to pay for his secondary school education before rising to fame in the music industry.
Speaking during an interview on The Honest Bunch podcast, the street-hop artiste said he had no one to sponsor his education because of the high cost of school fees. He disclosed that he later gained admission to Kwara State Polytechnic, where he studied Business Administration before eventually dropping out.
In the interview, Portable responded to those who often describe him as uneducated, saying despite being mocked as an “olodo” (dullard), he is now the one taking care of his father financially.
“I was a student of Kwara Poly before I dropped out. Me wey dem dey call olodo na em dey feed my papa now,” he said in Pidgin English.
The singer also claimed that while his father sponsored the education of his siblings, they are yet to secure government jobs, leaving him as the family’s main provider.
Portable’s comments have sparked mixed reactions online. Many social media users praised his resilience and determination, describing his journey from selling pure water to becoming a successful musician as inspiring.
Others, however, questioned his repeated public discussions about his family and personal struggles.
The singer has previously spoken about his strained relationship with his father, accusing him of neglect and financial exploitation. His latest remarks further reinforce his narrative of overcoming hardship through self-reliance.
Known for his breakout hit Zazu and his outspoken personality, Portable remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial entertainers, continuing to attract both admiration and criticism while sharing his journey from humble beginnings to stardom.
