A Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday denied bail to controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, following his arraignment on multiple criminal charges, including assault and resisting arrest.
The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the development on Tuesday, stating that the musician was arrested and arraigned in Ota on Monday and subsequently remanded in custody.
Portable’s arraignment followed a viral video that emerged on Sunday showing him handcuffed, shirtless and tearfully pleading while seated in what appeared to be a police holding area.
The singer was reportedly arrested over allegations of assault against actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, also known as Ashabi Simple, one of his baby mamas and the mother of two of his children.
According to the prosecution, the Zazu crooner allegedly attacked Ashabi, alongside some police officers and other individuals, at his bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area on New Year’s Day. Other alleged victims listed in the charge include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The prosecution further alleged that Portable stole a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola and linked to car dealer Wally Dex Auto.
During the proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses to the alleged assault, although Ashabi herself was absent from court. Police also accused the singer of obstructing and assaulting a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, in the course of her official duties.
The presiding judge declined to grant bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge ruled that the officer must be present before a decision on the bail application could be taken and consequently adjourned the bail hearing to January 19, ordering that Portable be remanded in custody.
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.
Advertisement
