Veteran journalist and media mogul, Dele Momodu, has taken to his official X handle to share and comment on a video by popular musician Portable, in which the artiste addresses criticisms for his decision not to participate in the upcoming “End Bad Governance” protest.
In the video, Portable, known for his candid and often controversial statements, explains that his newfound wealth prevents him from joining the protest organized by Nigerian youths to challenge the government on the current hardships faced by the country. He draws comparisons to prominent figures like Dangote, Otedola, and Dele Momodu, stating that their wealth similarly exempts them from participating in such demonstrations.
Portable said, “I’m now rich and cannot join the protest unlike in 2020 when I participated in the EndSARS protest. People like Dangote, Otedola, and Dele Momodu can never participate in protests because they’re rich. As such, I can’t also participate in the protest because I’m rich.”
Dele Momodu shared Portable’s video on his X handle with a lighthearted response, “I’m in stitches laughing over PORTABLE’s video on the planned protest… The greatly talented and very popular artist says he is now too rich to be protesting…”
I'm in stitches laughing over PORTABLE's video on the planned protest… The greatly talented and very popular artist says he is now too rich to be protesting… pic.twitter.com/dtd4BscJuB
— Dele Momodu Ovation (@DeleMomodu) July 27, 2024
GWG.ng reports that this isn’t the first time Portable has sparked controversy with his statements and actions. A few weeks ago, upon returning from his UK trip, Portable’s vehicle broke down on a road in Ogun State due to its poor condition. He took to social media to criticize the Ogun State government for neglecting the road. However, just hours later, he released another video praising the same government, claiming he had been given 2 million naira. This sudden change of heart led to speculation and criticism from the public about his motives.
The video and Momodu’s reaction have sparked widespread discussions on social media, with netizens expressing a range of opinions on Portable’s remarks and the role of wealth in civic engagement. Many have criticized Portable for what they see as a dismissive attitude towards the plight of ordinary Nigerians, while others find humor in his unabashed honesty.
Read some netizens’ reactions below;
@hamsuf: Portable wey go soon drop another video say in dey on colos na why
@mbuyazi: … He has tasted money, he thinks he is too big to fall. If Dangote can cry, who is Portable? Not everyone handles fortune with grace, Portable is an example.
@seyialli: He is a wise man.Read in-between the line, you will understand the message he is passing across @DeleMomodu Reflect!
@yakubutijani2: We all know what we’re doing in this country. If you see anyone shouting, it’s either he has been pushed off the table or yet to invited to the table.
@flourish007: Portable is not rich; he’s just misinformed into believing he is.Dangote started his peaceful protest a few weeks ago because the government is giving him a “hot breakfast,” and he’s ready to disrupt the status quo.Portable is a tool used by rogue politicians to create division.Let’s ignore him. He’ll be discarded after they’ve used him.
@jamessokafor: We wil remind him of. This video
As the “End Bad Governance” protest approaches, the conversation surrounding the involvement of influential figures continues to evolve, highlighting the complex relationship between wealth, influence, and activism in Nigeria