Portable Arraigned on Nine-Count Charge
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Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, was on Monday arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over a nine-count criminal charge bordering on assault, theft, causing bodily harm, and resisting arrest.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement by its spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, who said the charges followed a petition filed against the singer by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
According to Babaseyi, “The defendant was arraigned on multiple counts, including assault, theft, causing harm, and obstruction of police officers in the lawful discharge of their duties.”
Portable’s arraignment came a day after a video showing him in police custody went viral on social media, sparking widespread reactions. Police alleged that the incident stemmed from an altercation that occurred on New Year’s Day at the singer’s bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State.
The prosecution told the court that Portable allegedly attacked Ashabi Simple, alongside several police officers and other individuals during the incident. Other 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 N12 million, reportedly belonging to one Ileyemi Damilola, with the vehicle traced to a car dealer identified as Wally Dex Auto.
During the proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared in court as prosecution witnesses and gave testimony on the alleged assault. Ashabi herself, however, was absent from the court session.
Police further accused Portable of obstructing and assaulting a female police officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was said to be carrying out her official duties.
Ruling on the bail application, the presiding judge declined to grant bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court.
“The court needs to see the officer involved before a decision can be made on the bail application,” the judge ruled.
Consequently, the court ordered that Portable be remanded in custody pending a fresh consideration of his bail application, which was adjourned to January 19.
