Headies: Why We Disqualified Portable Amid Police Probe

Following the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baba Alkali’s order to investigate singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known portable for alleged involvement in the formation of two dreaded cult groups terrorising Lagos and it’s environs, the organisers of the 2022 edition of Nigerian music awards, Headies, on Tuesday, disqualified his nomination.

In a statement from The Headies secretariat, the organisers assured the Nigerian music audience of its commitment to promoting talents and individuals of exemplary character in the best interest of society.

“We regret to announce that following numerous indicting statements made by Mr Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as “Portable”, and the incessant negative attention that Mr Okikiola has garnered from the Nigeria Police and the general public in recent times, the organisers of the Headies have resolved to disqualify Mr Okikiola as a nominee at the forthcoming 15th Headies Awards,” the statement reads.

Numerous infractions

Smooth Promotions, the organisers of the Headies Awards, says that it is a law-abiding and responsible organisation that hates any form of violence, unlawful gathering or activities ravaging our society.

“We shall not condone reckless and uncouth statements from artists and at this moment disassociate ourselves from any individual linked to such assembly or activities, including Mr Okikiola’s prospects, as long as these acts are sufficiently linked to him as described.

“The music industry demands all-around excellence. It is extremely important for young artists to be potential role models to exude professional responsibility, pretiquettecorum and respect for others,” the statement adds.

The controversial singer had been in the limelight for the wrong reasons, comment and alleged assaults recently.

It would be recalled that the singer in a video that went viral was seen saying “Open your ears and be listening.

“Have you heard of Ajah boys, one million boys? I established them.”

It would be recalled also that in late June, the Ogun State Police Command invited Portable over assault of DJ Chicken.

Also, the Zazu Zeh’ crooner on May 25, threatened to kill the organisers of Headies award and other nominees, if he did not emerge as the award winner in the categories he was nominated.

His words are, “Those are my awards. Anybody else who wins, I will ask for them to be killed. I will ask them to kill the person. If the organisers give my award to someone else, they will die.”