By Ayomide Otitoju
Controversial Nigerian singer Habeed Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before a State High Court in Ota, Ogun State, over a nine-count charge bordering on assault, theft, causing harm and resisting arrest.
Thej on Monday following his arrest by operatives of the Ogun State Police Command over allegations linked to a New Year’s Day incident at his bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of the state.
Confirming the arraignment, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the charges arose from a complaint reportedly filed by the singer’s estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
According to the prosecution, Portable allegedly attacked Ashabi, several police officers and other individuals present at the scene during the incident. Other alleged victims named in the charge include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The singer was also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, allegedly belonging to one of the complainants, Ileyemi Damilola. The vehicle was said to be registered to a car dealer identified as Wally Dex Auto.
During the proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as prosecution witnesses, giving accounts of the alleged assault. Ashabi herself was, however, absent from the court.
Police further alleged that Portable obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties during the incident.
When his bail application was taken, the presiding judge declined to grant bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court, and stressed the need to hear from her before making a ruling.
Consequently, the singer was remanded in custody pending a fresh hearing on the bail application scheduled for January 19.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a viral video circulating online that allegedly shows the singer being assaulted while in police custody, saying the probe is aimed at ensuring due process and accountability.
Portable, known for his outspoken persona and frequent run-ins with authorities, has yet to enter a plea as the case continues.
