Controversial Nigerian street-hop artiste, Habeeb Okikiola, widely recognized by his stage name Portable, has once again made headlines after dropping another dose of his signature “street wisdom” — this time mocking individuals who flaunt luxury gadgets like the new iPhone 17 while lacking basic life necessities.
In a video that quickly went viral across various social media platforms, the outspoken Zazoo Zeh crooner ridiculed those who take pride in owning the latest iPhone even when they have no personal means of transportation or a stable place to live.
Speaking in his characteristic energetic tone, Portable said, “You dey use iPhone 17, you no get 4 tyres, you go soon tire,” a phrase that has since become an online catchphrase and meme. He lamented how many young Nigerians prioritize luxury gadgets for show rather than investing in things that can genuinely improve their standard of living.
According to him, the obsession with brand image and social validation has led many youths astray, pushing them into financial struggles while trying to keep up appearances online. He emphasized that true success comes from hard work and discipline, not from “using iPhone to form big boy or big girl.”
Portable further advised the youth to focus their energy on acquiring skills, building businesses, and chasing real progress instead of wasting hard-earned money just to post flashy photos on social media. “Make una hustle, no be iPhone go give una better life. Na work dey pay, no be show-off,” he added in his signature Pidgin English.
Portable tackles fake iPhones and “Chinese” versions
In the same viral clip, the singer didn’t stop at criticizing materialistic behaviour — he also addressed the growing issue of counterfeit iPhone 17 models allegedly circulating in Nigerian markets. According to him, many importers are flooding the market with fake versions of the newly released phone, deceiving unsuspecting buyers who just want to “belong.”
“Una don bring thief, una don bring Chinese. They want to dupe you, una dey spoil people business,” Portable ranted, visibly angry as he accused some dealers of exploiting customers’ ignorance and desperation to appear trendy. He argued that those spending millions on a phone deserve to get an authentic product, not cheap imitations disguised as originals.
Portable claimed that such fraudulent practices not only hurt consumers but also affect genuine business owners who deal in legitimate gadgets. He further noted that the craze for the iPhone 17 has made many people victims of online scams and shady street deals.
His comments have since sparked nationwide conversation about Nigeria’s growing consumer culture, the rising influx of counterfeit goods, and how social media pressure has become a major driver of financial recklessness among young people.
Fans react with humour and mixed opinions
As expected, Portable’s outburst triggered a wave of hilarious and thought-provoking reactions across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Many Nigerians agreed with his message, even if they found his delivery controversial and comical.
One social media user wrote, “It’s causing wahala because Nigerians like to oppress themselves. Those using fake iPhone 17 go explain tire when dem wan oppress others.”
Another fan humorously echoed Portable’s words, saying, “You dey use iPhone 17, you no get four tyre, you go soon tire,” turning the statement into a viral slogan now being remixed into memes and comedy skits.
Some users praised Portable for being brutally honest, describing him as “the street preacher” who often says what others are afraid to mention. Others, however, criticized his tone, suggesting that he could pass his message in a less insulting way while still addressing real societal issues.
A Twitter user commented, “Portable fit talk rubbish sometimes, but e dey always make sense deep down. The guy dey speak truth codedly.” Another added, “If you check well, most of the people Portable dey mock no get savings, but dem go dey rush latest iPhone.”
Despite the mixed opinions, Portable’s latest rant has once again solidified his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken and unpredictable entertainers — someone who uses humour, slang, and raw energy to reflect the realities of life in the streets.
The viral video continues to generate buzz, with several celebrities and influencers joining the conversation about priorities, lifestyle choices, and the need for financial wisdom in an age of digital showmanship.
Watch the viral video below as Portable shares his unfiltered thoughts on iPhone 17 users and fake phones flooding the market:
[blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">iPhone 17 don cause serious wahala for everyone o 😭💔🫵🏽 pic.twitter.com/I1jpbFgpbm
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) October 17, 2025