Controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has reportedly gone into hiding as the Ogun State Police arraigned nine of his associates before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, on Thursday. The suspects were charged with allegedly assaulting officers of the Ota Zonal Planning Office of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The defendants 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 arraigned on five charges, including felony, assault, unlawful restriction, possession of dangerous weapons such as cutlasses and guns, conduct likely to breach public peace, and attempted murder.
The defendants pleaded not guilty.
Prosecution’s Case
Police Prosecutor Sunday Ekong informed the court that the defendants committed the offences on Wednesday around 10:00 a.m. at Oke-Osa in Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
According to Ekong, the defendants, along with Portable—who is currently at large—unlawfully assaulted, restricted, and obstructed three town planners: Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero. The alleged attack occurred at Odogwu Bar, a property owned by Portable.
Ekong further stated that the defendants and Portable were armed with dangerous weapons and conducted themselves in a manner likely to breach public peace, with intent to kill the town planning officers.
He noted that the charges contravene Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Laws of 2006.
Court’s Ruling
Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted the defendants bail set at N5 million each, with sureties who must be licensed bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Government. The case was adjourned until March 17 for hearing.
Background to the Incident
Daily Trust reports that Portable had recently expressed frustration over the Ogun State Government’s decision to seal his uncompleted building and hotel.
In a letter posted on social media, the government cited alleged illegal development without an approval permit as the reason for the action.
Portable claimed that the raid led to the arrest of over 20 people, including artistes, customers, and individuals who had come to seek his help. He also alleged that authorities confiscated vehicles, motorcycles, and phones.
The singer defended his use of the property, insisting that it was not solely for selling drinks but also for hosting events and shows.
