Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been declared “at large” by the Ogun State Police Command following the arrest and arraignment of nine of his associates for allegedly assaulting and obstructing government officials.
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, the police brought nine individuals linked to the singer before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta. They were charged with offenses including felony, assault, obstruction, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace. The defendants—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)—pleaded not guilty.
According to the prosecution, the alleged incident occurred on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at around 10:00 a.m. in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota. Prosecutor Sunday Ekong stated that Portable and the defendants obstructed town planning officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—who were carrying out their lawful duties at Odogwu Bar, a property owned by the singer. The attack reportedly involved weapons, including cutlasses and firearms.
The suspects were charged under Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Laws of 2006. Magistrate O. Mofun granted each defendant bail set at N5 million, with sureties required to be licensed bondmen registered with the Ogun State government. The case was adjourned until March 17, 2025, for further hearing.
The legal proceedings follow the Ogun State Government’s recent sealing of Portable’s uncompleted building and hotel, citing illegal construction without proper approvals. In response, the singer took to social media, alleging that government actions led to the mass arrest of over 20 individuals, including artists and customers, and the confiscation of vehicles and personal belongings. He also publicly pleaded for their release.
As of now, Portable remains at large, while authorities continue their search for him.
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