Portable Docked, Remanded Over Alleged Assault On Police Officer, Car Theft

Abeokuta,  Ogun State– Controversial Nigerian street-hop singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before a Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over a nine-count criminal charge bordering on assault, theft, and obstruction of police officers in the course of duty.

The embattled singer was brought before the court on Monday following his arrest by operatives of the Ogun State Police Command, a development that came barely 24 hours after a viral video surfaced online showing him in police custody.

Confirming the charges, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed that Portable is facing multiple allegations including assault, causing grievous harm, resisting arrest, and theft of a luxury vehicle.

According to the prosecution, the case stems from a complaint reportedly filed by the singer’s estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, who accused him of violent conduct during an altercation at his bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area of the state.

Police alleged that on New Year’s Day, Portable attacked Ashabi Simple alongside several other individuals, including police officers who were said to be on official duty at the time of the incident.

The prosecution told the court that the singer became violent when officers attempted to intervene in the dispute, leading to injuries sustained by multiple victims.

Among those listed as victims in the charge sheet are Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.

The police further accused Portable of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300, valued at ₦12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola.

The vehicle was reportedly linked to a popular automobile dealer, Wally Dex Auto. Prosecutors alleged that the singer unlawfully took possession of the vehicle during the same incident that led to his arrest.

In court, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses, narrating events surrounding the alleged assault.

However, Ashabi herself was notably absent from the proceedings, a point that drew attention during the hearing.

The prosecution also told the court that Portable assaulted and obstructed a female police officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties, an offence which they described as a serious breach of the law.

When his counsel applied for bail, the presiding judge declined to grant the request, citing procedural concerns.

The court noted the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer, Inspector Olayemi, whose testimony the judge insisted was critical before any decision on bail could be made.

The judge maintained that the court must physically see the officer and assess the claims of assault before ruling on the bail application. Consequently, Portable was ordered to be remanded in custody.

The court adjourned the matter and fixed January 19 for a fresh hearing and reconsideration of the bail application.

Portable, known for his controversial lifestyle and frequent run-ins with law enforcement, has repeatedly made headlines for legal troubles, public altercations, and social media outbursts.