Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been remanded in custody following his arraignment before the Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, on a nine-count criminal charge.
The charges, confirmed by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, include assault, theft, causing bodily harm and resisting lawful arrest.
Portable’s arraignment followed the circulation of a viral video on Sunday showing him in police custody. The case is reportedly linked to a complaint filed by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
According to the prosecution, the singer allegedly assaulted Ashabi, several police officers and other individuals at his bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area 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.
The police also accused Portable of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, said to belong to Ileyemi Damilola and linked to car dealership firm, Wally Dex Auto.
During the court proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses to the alleged assault. Ashabi herself, however, was not present in court.
The prosecution further alleged that the singer obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
In his ruling, the presiding judge declined to grant Portable bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge held that the officer’s presence was required before a decision on the bail application could be taken.
As a result, Portable was remanded in custody, while the court adjourned the matter to January 19 for consideration of bail.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a separate viral video allegedly showing the singer being assaulted while in police custody.
