Portable Arraigned In Court

Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, was on Monday arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over multiple criminal allegations including assault, theft, causing bodily harm and resisting arrest.

The singer is facing a nine-count charge, according to the Ogun State Police Command. Confirming the development, the state police spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the charges stem from a series of incidents involving the artiste, notably an alleged assault on his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, and other individuals.

Portable’s court appearance followed the circulation of a viral video on Sunday showing him in police custody. The video was reportedly connected to a complaint lodged by Ashabi Simple, who accused the singer of physically assaulting her.

Prosecutors told the court that the alleged incident occurred on New Year’s Day at Portable’s bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State, where he was said to have attacked Ashabi, several police officers, and other individuals.

In addition to the assault allegations, Portable was accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million. The vehicle reportedly belongs to one Ileyemi Damilola and was allegedly obtained from Wally Dex Auto under questionable circumstances.

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

During the proceedings, siblings of Ashabi Simple testified before the court as witnesses to the alleged assault, although the complainant herself was absent. The police also accused Portable of obstructing and assaulting a female police officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.

After listening to the testimonies, the presiding judge declined to grant the singer bail, citing the absence of the police officer who was allegedly assaulted. The court ruled that the officer must appear before any decision on bail could be made.

Consequently, Portable was remanded in custody, while the court adjourned the matter to January 19 for a fresh bail hearing.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a separate viral video showing the singer allegedly being assaulted while in police custody. Authorities say the probe is ongoing as efforts continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.