27/01/2026
*Femi Atoyebi Writes: A Moment of Sadness, Not Envy*
On Portable Zazuu Newly Purchased Vehicle.
I must confess that I feel a deep sense of sadness and disappointment seeing Portable purchase yet another new vehicle—especially when his garage already boasts several cars. This is not from a place of envy or bad belle, as some may quickly label it, but from a sincere call to better reasoning and deeper reflection.
What this act sadly highlights is a negative traditional mindset still prevalent among many Nigerians, particularly among Yorubas—the belief that acquiring cars is the ultimate symbol of affluence and a life accomplishment. We have been conditioned to clap for material display rather than sustainable impact, to celebrate possessions instead of progress.
More troubling is what this decision says about the misappropriation of the massive energy of support Portable is currently enjoying. The wave of support following him—despite his controversial lifestyle—is not accidental. Many people stand with him because they expect growth, maturity, and wiser use of influence. They expect that the financial rewards coming from this support will translate into better decisions, improved image, and meaningful contributions. Sadly, this expectation appears unmet.
From a financial standpoint, it is also important to state the obvious: cars are liabilities, not assets. They depreciate. They drain resources. They do not multiply value. With the kind of attention and goodwill Portable enjoys today, there were far better options.
He could have:
1. Supported the causes he often rides on—human rights, the streets, and the Bettering Lives movement that has, in many ways, helped him stay afloat amid issues with government and individuals.
2. Invested in strengthening his brand—modernizing Odogwu Bar, improving its image, expanding its base.
3. Channelled resources into community impact—a road project in Sango, support for the school he visited recently, or any visible social intervention that would uplift others.
Any of these would have elevated not just his image, but also our shared humanity. They would have told a stronger story than another car ever could.
There is also a fearful implication here: when people begin to see that no tangible, lasting value is coming from a movement they support, the wave of goodwill can drop—sometimes drastically. Public support is emotional, but it is not endless.
As Saidi Osupa wisely sang, those who spend for your music do so with the hope that you will do better. Support is given with expectation, and such support does not last forever.
In all honesty, I believe Portable’s management bears responsibility here. They should have advised him better. Moments like this require guidance, not applause.
This is not an attack. It is a plea—for growth, wisdom, and legacy over fleeting applause.
Because influence is a gift, and how you spend it determines how long it stays with you.
— Femi Atoyebi BLA