Court Remands Portable Over Assault, Theft Allegations in Ogun

Court Remands Portable Over Assault, Theft Allegations in Ogun

Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, over multiple criminal charges, including assault, resisting arrest, and theft.

The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the development on Tuesday, with the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Oluseyi Babaseyi, stating that the singer was arrested, arraigned, and subsequently remanded in custody on Monday.

“Yes, he was arraigned and remanded yesterday,” Babaseyi said.

Portable’s court appearance followed the circulation of a viral video on Sunday showing the Zazu crooner handcuffed, shirtless, and visibly distressed while pleading in what appeared to be a police holding facility.

According to the prosecution, the singer allegedly assaulted actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, also known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of his baby mamas, alongside police officers and other individuals at his bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State on New Year’s Day.

Other alleged victims listed in the charge sheet include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.

READ ALSO:

• ADC Woos Jonathan, Saraki, Governors Ahead of 2027 Elections
• Middle East Tensions Rise as US Declares Muslim Brotherhood Groups Terrorist
• Carloha’s after-sales strategy transforming auto ownership in Nigeria, GM speaks to firm’s award

The police further accused Portable of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, reportedly belonging to Ileyemi Damilola and linked to car dealer Wally Dex Auto.

During the court proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as prosecution witnesses, although Ashabi herself was absent from the hearing.

Police also alleged that the singer obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties.

The presiding judge declined to grant bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge ruled that the officer must be present before the bail application could be considered and consequently adjourned the bail hearing to January 19, ordering that Portable remain in custody.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a separate viral video allegedly showing the singer being assaulted while in detention.

Court Remands Portable Over Assault, Theft Allegations in Ogun

(Punch)