Controversial Nigerian singer Portable has stirred controversy with his recent statement, suggesting that legendary Afrobeat icon Fela Kuti would have lived longer if he had focused on his own affairs rather than engaging in political activism.
In a guest appearance on the latest episode of the Echoo Room podcast, Portable discussed the concept of “minding one’s business” and referenced Kuti, who passed away at age 58, as an example of someone who might have benefited from avoiding confrontations with the government.
“If Fela had minded his business a bit, he would have lived longer, but he was fighting the government. After God comes the government, and even our parents who fought the same government were hungry, and till now we’re still hungry,” Portable remarked.
The host pointed out that Kuti’s activism was aimed at improving Nigeria, to which Portable responded by questioning the value of such efforts. He emphasized that personal survival should take precedence over activism, urging Nigerians to focus on their own well-being instead of fighting for broader societal change.
“Nigerians should fight for themselves. If you fight for Nigerians and they catch you, you will suffer and nobody will support you in Nigeria. Why are you fighting for Nigeria? Fight for yourself; Nigeria is okay,” Portable said.
He concluded with a personal perspective on responsibility, stating, “When you are okay, your family will be okay, just feed your family and your neighbours. Things are hard but feed the people you are meant to feed. I, for instance, cannot ignore my wife and family and come and take care of you.”
Portable’s comments reflect his stance on activism and personal responsibility, sparking discussions about the balance between individual survival and collective social change.