Manny Ita –
The Nigerian music industry is observing a deepening rift between YBNL founder Olamide Adedeji and his former protégé, Portable, following allegations that the rapper is spearheading a quiet campaign to sideline the “Zazu” singer. The controversy reached a boiling point on Wednesday morning after influencer Tunde Perry claimed that Olamide and a select “circle” of international promoters and music moguls had discussed a formal blacklisting of Portable due to his recurring public outbursts and perceived lack of professional decorum. Perry alleged that Olamide, known for his prolific track record of mentoring “trenches” talent, has become increasingly wary of the risks associated with such philanthropic efforts, with Portable’s recent conduct serving as the primary catalyst for this shift in executive strategy.
Responding to these claims in a viral broadcast that has saturated digital platforms, Portable launched a direct verbal assault on the YBNL camp, dismissing the possibility that any executive circle could terminate his career. The singer argued that his professional trajectory is governed by a grassroots connection with his fanbase rather than the approval of high-level industry gatekeepers. “I am bigger than them. Who are those who want to blacklist? I heard that Tunde Perry said Olamide and his circle of music executives called for me to be blacklisted. Are you guys my fans or my God? Are you feeding me?” Portable queried in the footage. He further cautioned the veteran rapper against any further interference, stating, “Olamide, don’t mess with me. If you mess with me, I will return the energy. Stay on your own lane.”
While Portable’s narrative emphasizes his independence, the dispute highlights a growing conversation within the entertainment sector regarding the long-term sustainability of the “Olamide model” of talent discovery. Critics argue that the public fallout may discourage established figures from providing the necessary platform for emerging street-hop artists. For his part, Olamide has maintained a strategic silence, choosing not to address the allegations of blacklisting or the specific grievances raised regarding his recent London OVO Arena show. As of Wednesday afternoon, no official statement has been released from the YBNL camp, leaving industry observers to speculate on the future relationship between the mainstream executive class and the independent street-pop movement.
