Ogun Court Arraigns Singer Portable Over Alleged Assault, Theft and Obstruction of Police
Controversial Nigerian musician, Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, was on Monday arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over a nine-count criminal charge brought against him by law enforcement authorities.
The arraignment followed his arrest in connection with an incident involving a confrontation with police officers. Confirming the development, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed that the charges against the singer include assault, theft, causing bodily harm and resisting lawful arrest, among others.
Portable was brought to court under heavy security, drawing the attention of journalists and members of the public. He reportedly remained calm as the charges were read in open court. Sources revealed that the case arose from an altercation during an attempt by police officers to carry out their official duties.
According to the police, the singer allegedly assaulted officers during the encounter and resisted arrest. The prosecution further claimed that Portable inflicted bodily harm and engaged in actions considered criminal under Nigerian law. Although full details of the incident were not made public in court, authorities maintained that the charges were based on preliminary investigations and eyewitness testimonies.
During the proceedings, the prosecution requested that the defendant be remanded in custody pending further hearing. However, Portable’s legal counsel applied for bail, arguing that the singer is a well-known public figure with a verifiable address and posed no flight risk. The defence also assured the court of his client’s willingness to cooperate with ongoing investigations.
The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case to a later date to allow for proper consideration of the bail application and other legal processes, directing both parties to file the necessary documents ahead of the next hearing.
The arraignment has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with Nigerians expressing divided opinions. While some supporters called for fairness and due process, others criticised the singer’s repeated encounters with law enforcement, describing the case as part of a pattern of controversy surrounding his career.
Portable, who rose to fame with his hit song “Zazoo Zehh,” has frequently made headlines for issues beyond music, including public disputes and altercations. As the trial progresses, legal observers say the outcome will depend largely on the evidence presented by the prosecution and the court’s evaluation of the allegations.
The next court sitting is expected to determine key issues such as bail conditions and the future direction of the case as the judicial process continues in Ogun State.
