Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has suffered a major legal setback after a court refused to grant him bail, ordering that he be remanded in custody over serious criminal allegations.
Portable was arraigned on Monday before a Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, where he is facing charges bordering on assault, resisting arrest, obstruction of police officers, and alleged car theft.
The ruling comes amid growing public outrage following a viral video that showed the Zazu crooner shirtless, handcuffed and tearfully pleading inside what appeared to be a police holding cell.
Confirming the development, the Ogun State Police Command said the singer was lawfully arrested and arraigned.
“Yes, he was arraigned and remanded yesterday,” police spokesman Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed.
According to court filings, Portable allegedly assaulted actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, one of his baby mamas, during an incident that reportedly occurred at his bar in Iyana Ilogbo on New Year’s Day.
Prosecutors further alleged that the singer attacked police officers and other individuals who were present at the scene.
Additional victims listed in the charge include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The court was also told that Portable allegedly stole a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, said to belong to Ileyemi Damilola and linked to a popular car dealership, Wally Dex Auto.
During the hearing, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified against the singer, although Ashabi herself did not appear in court.
Police also accused Portable of assaulting a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
In his ruling, the presiding judge declined to grant bail, noting that the allegedly assaulted police officer was not present in court, and ruled that her testimony was crucial to the bail application.
The court consequently ordered that Portable be remanded in custody, adjourning the bail hearing to January 19.
