In a dramatic turn of events, Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has voluntarily turned himself in to the Lagos State Police. The controversial singer’s surrender follows an ongoing investigation into his involvement in a violent confrontation with government officials in Ogun State.
Portable’s action came after a warrant for his arrest was issued by the Ogun State Police Command, following the singer’s alleged role in leading an attack on enforcement officers in the state. The incident has drawn widespread public attention and sparked debates on the treatment of public officials and the behavior of celebrities.
Confirming the development, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that Portable had surrendered to the Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba on Wednesday. He said in a text message, “Portable just turned himself in at the SCID Yaba. We have contacted Ogun State Police Command to come pick him up.”
Sources close to the investigation reveal that Portable was wanted in connection with an assault on three officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The attack allegedly occurred while the officials were conducting their duties in the Ota area of Ogun State.
The three affected officers, identified as TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef, and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi, were reportedly enforcing government regulations in the Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota area when they were confronted by Portable and his associates. According to reports, the singer’s entourage allegedly attacked the officials, preventing them from carrying out their lawful duty.
A source familiar with the case shared that the officials had been engaged in routine checks when they were suddenly accosted by Portable, who was accompanied by a group of men. “What happened was that the officials were simply doing their job when the singer appeared out of nowhere, shouting at them and then ordering his people to use force to stop them from proceeding with their work,” the source stated. The situation escalated, leading to physical confrontation.
The attack has caused an uproar on social media, with many Nigerians criticizing the actions of Portable and questioning the increasing incidents of violent behavior by celebrities. Many were quick to point out that celebrities, often idolized by the public, should be setting better examples rather than engaging in such acts of aggression.
In response to the incident, the Ogun State Government issued a stern statement condemning the attack, describing it as an assault on public officials performing their lawful duties. The government also vowed to ensure that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
The statement read in part: “The Ogun State Government is deeply concerned about this senseless act of violence, which not only undermines the work of public servants but also disrupts the peace and order of the community. We will not allow such behavior to go unpunished.”
The controversy surrounding Portable is not new. Known for his unique style of music and even more for his boisterous, often controversial public persona, the singer has had numerous run-ins with the law. His brash personality has made headlines multiple times, from altercations with other celebrities to his confrontational approach to critics and journalists.
Despite his fame, Portable has also been a divisive figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry. While some celebrate him for his unapologetic attitude and unique musical style, others view his behavior as detrimental to the industry, arguing that it perpetuates a culture of lawlessness and poor public conduct.
This latest incident raises important questions about celebrity culture in Nigeria and the line between artistic expression and personal accountability. Some have argued that celebrities should be more responsible, particularly given their influence on the youth and society at large.
“The problem with these celebrities is that they believe they can do anything without consequences,” said a Lagos-based political analyst. “Their fame makes them feel invincible, and unfortunately, many of them believe they can flout the law without facing any repercussions.”
In the wake of the incident, many Nigerians took to social media to express their shock and disappointment, with some even calling for a ban on Portable’s music, while others advocated for a more measured approach to holding him accountable.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the focus is now on how the legal process will unfold. Portable is expected to face charges for assault, and it remains to be seen whether he will be granted bail or held in custody pending trial. Authorities have emphasized that they will work with the Ogun State Police Command to ensure that justice is served.
Portable’s surrender to the police comes at a time when his career is at a crossroads. Having risen to fame through his unique brand of music and his highly publicized antics, the singer has enjoyed significant popularity in recent years. However, with this latest controversy, it seems his image may be taking a significant hit.
The question on everyone’s mind is whether this incident will mark a turning point in his career or whether Portable will continue to thrive in the limelight despite the growing criticism of his actions. In the meantime, his legal team is reportedly working on his defense, though no official statement has been released regarding the charges he faces.
