Police Probe Viral Video Showing Alleged Assault of Singer Portable in Custody

Police Probe Viral Video Showing Alleged Assault of Singer Portable in Custody

The Ogun State Police Command has launched an internal investigation following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing popular Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, being assaulted while in police custody.

The footage, which spread rapidly across social media platforms, particularly X, shows the Zazu crooner handcuffed, shirtless and visibly distressed, pleading tearfully while seated inside what appears to be a police detention facility.

Unconfirmed reports suggest the incident occurred at a detention centre in Ogun State, where the musician was allegedly beaten by police officers, sparking widespread public outrage and renewed debate over police brutality and human rights violations.

Reacting to the development, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that Portable remains in police custody and condemned the alleged assault shown in the video.

“Yes, he was arrested and he is with us, but that is a different issue. What is important is the assault that was happening at the station. We don’t condone it,” Babaseyi said.

The police spokesperson stressed that the recording or public display of suspects violates police regulations and compromises investigations.

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“We don’t condone videoing suspects or putting their faces out. No matter who the suspect is, nobody should be treated in such a manner,” he added.

DSP Babaseyi disclosed that an internal inquiry had already commenced, assuring that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action.

“The investigation is ongoing, and the officers involved, if found guilty, will be sent to the appropriate authorities. That process has already started,” he said.

Portable’s arrest is connected to allegations of assault made by actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of the singer’s baby mamas.

The alleged incident reportedly occurred on January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State, where Ashabi had visited following an invitation from the singer.

Sources said a disagreement ensued after Ashabi reportedly demanded recognition as Portable’s wife rather than a baby mama — a request the singer allegedly rejected, insisting that only his legally married wife, Bewaji, holds that status.

The argument allegedly escalated into physical violence, with Ashabi accusing Portable of slapping and beating her, seizing mobile phones, and threatening her and her siblings with an axe.

Portable has since denied the allegations, addressing the matter in a lengthy Instagram video in which he criticised the lawsuit filed against him and accused Ashabi of infidelity.

Police Probe Viral Video Showing Alleged Assault of Singer Portable in Custody