Breaking: Portable declines EFCC’s invitation, cites insecurity, hardship

Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has said he will not immediately honour an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of naira abuse linked to his son’s naming ceremony.

The singer disclosed in a series of videos shared on his Instagram page that he had received an official letter from the anti-graft agency regarding claims that he sprayed and mishandled the naira during the family event held in May.

According to Portable, he has directed his legal representative to respond to the commission on his behalf and does not intend to appear before the EFCC until September.

He said the decision was based on concerns about insecurity and economic hardship across the country.

The singer maintained that he was not attempting to evade the investigation but was acting on legal advice while prioritising the safety of his family.

Speaking in the videos, Portable questioned the basis of the invitation and argued that the country was facing more pressing challenges, including kidnapping and insecurity.

He claimed his lawyer advised postponing any appearance before the commission until conditions improve.

The musician also criticised the EFCC’s approach, accusing the agency of focusing on entertainers while more serious security threats persist across the country. He described the invitation as unnecessary and alleged that he was being unfairly singled out.

Appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Portable said he felt targeted despite being a supporter of the administration. He insisted that he was not involved in fraud, money laundering or other financial crimes and argued that the allegations were limited to claims of naira abuse.

The singer further questioned what he described as selective enforcement of laws governing the abuse of the national currency. He claimed that other public figures had engaged in similar conduct without attracting comparable scrutiny from authorities.

Portable also stated that the money used during the ceremony was sourced through a bureau de change operator and said he was gradually repaying the funds. He expressed surprise that a private celebration held at his residence had become the subject of regulatory attention.

The EFCC has yet to publicly respond to the singer’s comments.