Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has alleged that there is a coordinated bias within the Nigerian entertainment industry targeting certain individuals.
Speaking out after the 11th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), Portable claimed that veteran actor Ibrahim Chatta was unfairly denied the Best Lead Actor award. Chatta, who had been nominated for his performance in House of GAA, lost to Femi Adebayo for his role in Seven Doors. Notably, Adebayo’s co-star Chioma Chukwuka also clinched the Best Lead Actress title for the same film.
In a video shared on Instagram, Portable expressed his disappointment, arguing that Chatta’s acting prowess merited the win.
“There’s a conspiracy in the entertainment industry, even in Nollywood,” he said. “Despite Ibrahim Chatta’s outstanding performance, he was denied the award at the AMVCA. That’s the same way I was sidelined by The Headies Awards.”
Portable went on to stress that awards are not as important as financial well-being, saying, “We don’t need awards; we need food and money. Some people buy awards, but we don’t.”
He ended his message by praising Chatta, saying, “Even if they don’t honor you, God will. You’re my mentor and I love you.”
This isn’t the first time Chatta has voiced concerns about exclusion. In 2023, he also alleged that he was being deliberately overlooked by the AMVCA organizers.