March 29, 2026, may easily fade from the memories of others, but it will remain indelibly etched in the hearts of residents of Gboko, the ancestral home of the Tiv nation, following performances by some of Nigeria’s most celebrated music stars, especially Mr. Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, the Zazoo crooner, who served as the special guest artist of the day.
It was a captivating, unforgettable spectacle for music lovers across Benue State, as thousands trooped out en masse not only to welcome Portable but also to witness him perform alongside homegrown talents, Eddy Montana and Od Woods, at a music concert held at the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko.
Titled “Eddy Montana Live in Gboko,” the event was organized by Mr. Edward Terzungwe Addingi, better known as Eddy Montana, a Tiv musician, film actor, and writer currently based in Lagos. The JS Tarka Stadium venue was filled to capacity with palpable excitement and high-voltage energy. Stage lights flared in dazzling bursts; a blend of male and female voices – young and old alike – rose in thunderous chants; and the crowd kept surging with rhythmic enthusiasm as Portable delivered his flamboyant trademark performances both on and off the stage.
Also part of the performing crew were Benue-based artistes including Rapizo, Too Prince, Lady Pesh, King Xerxes, and a celebrated creative mimic, Adugbo Boy, among others. Each act exceeded expectations, adding distinct flair and momentum to an already exhilarating night.
Although the programme began later than scheduled, the people of Gboko demonstrated once again that Benue residents have an enduring love for music. They proved their zeal by staying through to the end. In the early hours of the morning, many left the stadium with radiant smiles, visibly fulfilled by one of the most remarkable musical moments in Gboko in recent times.
For many attendees, including politicians from various political parties, one question lingered: when will such a music fiesta return? Only time will tell what unfolds in the coming months, but the organizer, Eddy Montana, has assured that he will be back.
