By Blessing Obi
Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been granted bail by the Isabo Magistrate Court in Abeokuta, Nigeria following his arraignment on multiple charges, including assault and obstruction of government officials.
The controversial singer, who was declared wanted by the Ogun State Police Command, turned himself in at the Lagos State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) on Wednesday. He was subsequently transferred to the Ogun State Police Headquarters in Eleweran before being presented in court on Thursday.
Portable faced a five-count charge, including conspiracy, assault, restriction, being armed with cutlasses and guns, and conduct likely to cause harm. Despite the serious allegations, he pleaded not guilty to all charges.
His legal counsel, Oluwatoyin Ayodele, appealed for bail, arguing that the singer had shown remorse and had learned from the incident. In response, Magistrate O. L. Oke granted Portable bail set at N2 million with one surety in like sum. The court adjourned the trial to March 5, 2025.
Additionally, nine of Portable’s aides were arraigned on similar charges before the magistrate. The accused individuals include Nurudeen Warris (21), Adetola Alashe (25), Samuel Adeleke (28), Oluwaseun Ayenuwa (19), Oluwapelumi Adeosun (20), Gospel Kanu (20), Precious Ohiegebo (19), Ifeoluwa Babatunde (27), and Fatimo Muhammed (26). They were charged with felony, assault, obstruction, and conduct likely to breach public peace.
The Ogun State Government condemned Portable’s alleged actions, labeling him a “serial dissident and unrepentant rascal.” The charges stemmed from a February 5, 2025, incident in which Portable and his associates allegedly attacked three town planners—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—while they were performing official duties at Odogwu Bar, a property owned by the singer in the Sango area of Ogun State.
The case has garnered significant public attention, with many closely watching the upcoming trial as Portable and his co-accused prepare to defend themselves against the allegations. The adjourned hearing on March 5 will determine the next steps in the legal proceedings.
