Popular Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, has reportedly gone into hiding after police in Ogun State arraigned nine of his associates for allegedly attacking government officials. The suspects were brought before the Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, on Thursday for their role in an alleged assault on town planning officers who attempted to enforce government regulations at Portable’s property in Sango-Ota.
The nine defendants, identified as Nurudeen Warris, Adetola Alashe, Samuel Adeleke, Oluwaseun Ayenuwa, Oluwapelumi Adeosun, Gospel Kanu, Precious Ohiegebo, Ifeoluwa Babatunde, and Fatimo Muhammed, faced a five-count charge, including felony, assault, unlawful restriction, possession of dangerous weapons, and intent to cause harm.
Prosecutor Sunday Ekong told the court that the incident occurred at about 10:00 am on Wednesday at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, in Sango-Ota. He alleged that the accused, along with Portable, who is currently at large, obstructed and attacked town planning officials during a government operation to seal the singer’s property over alleged illegal construction.
Assault on Officials
According to Ekong, the town planners—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—were on official duty when they were assaulted by Portable’s group. “The accused persons and Portable, who is still at large, unlawfully assaulted, restricted, and obstructed the victims while they were performing their lawful duties at Odogwu Bar, owned by the musician,” Ekong stated.
The prosecution further claimed that the group was armed with cutlasses and guns and acted in a manner likely to cause a breach of public peace. Ekong emphasized that their actions contravened Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Law of 2006.
Court Grants Bail Amidst Public Interest
In her ruling, Magistrate O.M Somefun granted each defendant bail in the sum of N5 million, with sureties who are licensed bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Government. The case was adjourned until March 17 for further hearing.
Despite the court proceedings, Portable himself remains on the run, with the police intensifying efforts to track him down for questioning. Sources within the law enforcement agency suggest that he may soon be declared wanted if he does not surrender voluntarily.
Background: Portable’s Ongoing Feud with Ogun Authorities
Portable has had a series of run-ins with the authorities, with this latest controversy stemming from a government crackdown on illegal structures. The Ogun State Government had earlier sealed the singer’s uncompleted building and hotel, citing a lack of necessary approvals.
Portable took to social media to vent his frustration, accusing the government of targeting him unfairly. “They arrested over 20 people, including my artistes, customers, and those who came to me for help,” he claimed in a viral video. He further alleged that the authorities confiscated vehicles, motorcycles, and phones belonging to his associates and supporters.
The singer insisted that his establishment was not merely a bar but also a venue for hosting events and shows. “I am not just selling drinks, I am using the place for entertainment, but they want to frustrate me,” he said.
Portable’s Troubled Past with Law Enforcement
This is not the first time Portable has clashed with law enforcement. The controversial singer has built a reputation for being entangled in multiple legal troubles, often linked to his erratic behavior and outspoken nature.
In March 2023, he was arrested in Ogun State for allegedly resisting arrest and assaulting police officers. The case drew significant attention after the musician, during a livestream, boasted about his connections and claimed he was “a federal government liability” who could not be touched. He was eventually arraigned and granted bail.
Portable’s rise to fame has been as turbulent as his personal life. He gained national recognition in 2021 with his hit single Zazoo Zeh featuring Olamide, but his career has been marked by controversies, including public altercations and social media outbursts.
Public Reaction and Calls for Accountability
The latest developments have sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some of his fans believe he is being unfairly targeted by the government, others argue that he must face the consequences of his actions.
A social commentator criticized the singer’s actions, stating, “Nobody is above the law. If Portable is innocent, he should come forward and clear his name instead of running.”
Others have called on the Ogun State Government to ensure that due process is followed and that justice is served fairly for all parties involved.
