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[p]Nigerian street-hop sensation Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, widely known by his stage name Portable, has spoken out in response to the tragic massacre that recently took place in Benue State. The outspoken artist, famous for his energetic music and controversial personality, took to his official Instagram account to express his concern and call for action.
[/p][p]In a heartfelt and emotionally intense video, Portable directly appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to take immediate steps to stop the mass killings in the state. The Zazoo Zeh crooner joined the growing list of public figures condemning the gruesome attacks that occurred in the Yelwata area of Benue State between Friday, June 13, 2025, and Saturday, June 14, 2025.
[/p][p]According to reports circulating online, over 200 people were allegedly murdered in a violent raid that saw many victims burned alive. The massacre drew national attention after social commentator Vincent Martins Otse visited the location and shared disturbing visuals from the scene, causing public outcry.
[/p][p]In response, Portable released a video message in which he not only expressed his sorrow but also criticized the government's priorities, stating that the authorities in Benue appeared to care more about protecting cattle than human lives. His message was both emotional and direct:
[/p][p]"Please Daddy Tinubu, hear what Benue is saying. Benue needs your help. They are protecting cows more than human beings," he said.
[/p][p]The singer mentioned that he was motivated to speak out after veteran artist 2Baba (Innocent Idibia), who hails from Benue State, publicly condemned the killings. Portable praised 2Baba for using his influence to raise awareness and stated that it was his words that pushed him to also lend his voice to the situation.
[/p][p]He went further to say that although he had previously been invited to perform in Benue, the security situation now made it impossible for him to consider visiting. He pleaded with the President to step in quickly and end the violence. In his final plea, Portable warned that failing to address the situation could have political consequences for the President's future ambitions:
[/p][p]"Please Tinubu, do the needful. Don’t let them use this to spoil your election plans in 2027. Stop killing people in Benue," Portable concluded.
[/p][p]With this statement, Portable joined influential voices like 2Baba and rapper MI Abaga, both of whom have also publicly condemned the atrocities in Benue and demanded swift government intervention. Many Nigerians have applauded these celebrities for speaking up and calling on the authorities to protect lives and restore peace in the region.
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