Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
Controversial Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has been remanded in custody after an Ogun State court declined to grant him bail following his arraignment on multiple criminal charges.
Portable was brought before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota on Monday, where he faced allegations ranging from assault and theft to obstruction of law enforcement officers. The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the development, stating that the singer was formally arraigned and ordered to remain in custody.
According to the police spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, the case stems from an incident allegedly linked to a violent confrontation at the singer’s bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State on New Year’s Day. The prosecution accused the “Zazu” crooner of attacking actress and content creator Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, who is also the mother of two of his children.
The charge sheet further listed several other alleged victims, including Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah. Prosecutors claimed that some police officers were also assaulted during the incident while carrying out their official️ duties.
In addition to the assault allegations, Portable was accused of unlawfully taking a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at about ₦12 million. The vehicle was said to belong to Ileyemi Damilola and was reportedly linked to a Lagos-based car dealership, Wally Dex Auto.
During the court session, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared as prosecution witnesses and gave testimony regarding the alleged attack. However, Ashabi herself was not present in court.
The police also alleged that the singer physically obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, identified as Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
After listening to submissions, the presiding judge refused to consider Portable’s bail application, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer from the court proceedings. The judge ruled that her presence was necessary before any decision on bail could be taken.
Consequently, the court ordered that the singer be remanded in custody and adjourned the bail hearing until January 19.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has launched a separate inquiry into a viral video circulating on social media, which appears to show Portable being assaulted while in detention. The police said the investigation would determine the authenticity of the footage and whether any officers violated standard procedures.
