Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeed Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before a Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over multiple criminal allegations, including assault, theft and obstruction of police officers.
The artiste was brought before the court on Monday to answer a nine-count charge filed against him by the Ogun State Police Command. The police spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that the charges border on assault, causing grievous harm, resisting arrest and theft.
Portable’s arraignment followed a viral video that surfaced on Sunday showing him in police custody. The arrest was reportedly linked to a complaint lodged by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
According to the prosecution, the singer allegedly assaulted Ashabi, alongside several police officers and other individuals, during an incident that occurred at his bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State on New Year’s Day.
Other individuals listed as victims in the charge sheet include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The police further alleged that Portable stole a Mercedes-Benz E300, valued at N12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola. The vehicle was said to be linked to a car dealer identified as Wally Dex Auto.
In court, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared as prosecution witnesses and testified on the alleged assault, although Ashabi herself was absent from the proceedings.
The singer was also accused of assaulting and obstructing a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was reportedly carrying out her official duties.
Ruling on the bail application, the presiding judge declined to grant Portable bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge insisted that the officer must be present before a decision on bail could be taken.
As a result, Portable was ordered to be remanded in custody, with the court adjourning the matter for fresh consideration of his bail application on January 19.
