A Kwara State Upper Area Court in Ilorin has granted controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, bail in the sum of ₦1 million. The ruling comes after Portable was arraigned on several charges, including criminal defamation, intimidation, inciting public disturbance, and cyberstalking.
The case stems from a petition filed by fellow artist Okunola Saheed Osupa, also known as Saheed Osupa, who accused Portable of defaming his character and causing public disruption. Portable’s legal troubles began after a viral Instagram video posted on March 19, 2025, where he allegedly made damaging remarks about Osupa. In the live broadcast, Portable claimed that Osupa was envious of his success and sought to ruin his career by sabotaging his music on streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify.
In the video, Portable is heard saying: “This man dey try bring down my shine! He be like person wey dey chop snail with shell—him no get sense. Osupa na tortoise. When Apple Music and Spotify wan drop money for me, na him remove my song from platform make I no see money.” In English, he said: “This man is trying to dim my shine! He behaves like someone eating a snail with the shell—he lacks sense. Osupa is like a tortoise. When Apple Music and Spotify were about to pay me, he took down my song from the platforms so I wouldn’t get the money.”
Osupa, in his petition, argued that these statements were not only false but also defamatory. He claimed that Portable’s remarks were designed to incite public hatred against him and disturb the peace. Osupa further alleged that the defamatory comments had the potential to damage his reputation and standing in the entertainment industry.
Following the complaint, the State Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force took action, investigating the matter. Portable was interrogated and reportedly admitted to making the statements. Based on this confession, charges were filed against him.
The charges against Portable were brought under various legal provisions, including Section 392 of the Penal Code (Criminal Defamation), Section 114 (Inciting Disturbance), and Section 397 (Criminal Intimidation). Additionally, the singer was charged under Section 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, and Sections 10 and 13 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of 2020.
During the court session, the judge ruled that Portable be granted bail in the amount of ₦1 million, a decision that was welcomed by his legal team. However, the bail is conditional upon the singer providing two sureties. One surety must be a high-ranking member of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), either the Chairman or Secretary, and the other must possess landed property within a Government Reserved Area (GRA), accompanied by a valid Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
These strict bail conditions are aimed at ensuring that Portable returns to court for further proceedings. The case has been adjourned, and the presiding judge urged all parties involved to maintain decorum as they await the continuation of the trial.
This legal battle between Portable and Osupa has garnered significant public attention, especially considering the high-profile nature of both artists. Portable, who rose to fame with his hit songs and controversial public persona, has had a tumultuous career marked by numerous public spats and altercations. His feud with Osupa is just the latest in a series of incidents that have drawn criticism and media scrutiny.
For Osupa, the defamation case represents an attempt to clear his name and restore his reputation in the Nigerian music industry. Known for his contributions to the Fuji music genre, Osupa has built a loyal fan base, and the alleged defamation by Portable threatens to tarnish his image in the eyes of the public.
The case also raises questions about the role of social media in public life and the consequences of online statements. Portable’s Instagram live broadcast, which quickly went viral, highlights the power and influence of social media platforms in shaping public opinion and influencing legal proceedings. As cybercrimes laws evolve, cases like this one may set important precedents for how social media defamation is treated in Nigerian courts.
Public reactions to the case have been mixed. Fans of both artists have taken to social media to voice their opinions, with many supporting Portable and others standing by Osupa. The rivalry between the two musicians has sparked heated debates about freedom of speech, personal attacks, and the limits of online expression.
Industry stakeholders, particularly members of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), have called for a peaceful resolution to the dispute, urging both artists to focus on their music and avoid further public confrontations. PMAN officials have not made any formal statements about the ongoing case but have expressed concern over the growing trend of online insults and defamation in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
As for Portable, this case could have significant ramifications on his career and legal future. While he remains a popular figure in the Nigerian music scene, his legal issues and public controversies may affect his public image and future prospects. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled, especially in an era where social media is increasingly influential in shaping public perception.
If convicted, Portable could face a range of penalties, including fines, community service, or imprisonment. The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respecting the rights and reputations of others, even in an industry where rivalries and competition are common.
