Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abuja/Ota, Nigeria — Nigerian singer and internet personality Habeeb Okikiola, widely known by his stage name Portable, was on Monday arraigned before the Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, on a nine-count criminal charge encompassing allegations of assault, theft, causing bodily harm, resisting arrest and obstruction of law enforcement officers. The development marks a dramatic escalation in the legal troubles of the controversial entertainer, whose prolific social media presence has often been matched by headline-grabbing incidents.
The arraignment, confirmed by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, followed the circulation of a video on Sunday showing the singer in police custody, a clip that rapidly went viral and drew widespread public attention. The charges, as outlined by the police and prosecution in court, stem from an incident that occurred on New Year’s Day at Portable’s bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State.
According to the prosecution, the singer allegedly assaulted his estranged partner, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, along with several police officers and other individuals who were present at the venue. In court filings, the police listed multiple victims, including Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
In addition to the assault charges, Portable is accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at approximately ₦12 million, which prosecutors say belonged to one of the complainants. Police also alleged that he unlawfully resisted arrest and obstructed the duties of a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, during the course of their investigation.
During proceedings at the Federal High Court, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared as witnesses for the prosecution and provided testimony relating to the alleged assault. Notably, Ashabi Simple herself was absent from the courtroom, a factor that drew commentary from observers given her role in initiating the complaint that precipitated the singer’s arrest.
Portable’s legal team applied for bail during the hearing, but the presiding judge declined to grant the request, citing the non-appearance of the assaulted police officer whose testimony was deemed central to assessing the bail application. The judge ruled that the officer must be present before a determination on bail can be made. As a result, Portable was remanded in custody, with the case adjourned to January 19 for renewed consideration of the bail application and further proceedings.
The arraignment represents the latest in a series of publicized encounters between Portable and law enforcement or regulatory authorities. In previous years, the singer has faced multiple charges relating to alleged violent conduct, obstruction of officials and related offences, though the current case involves a broader set of accusations and has attracted particular media scrutiny due to the involvement of police officers among the alleged victims.
Reactions to the news of Portable’s arraignment and detention were mixed. Some members of the public expressed support for the judicial process and enforcement of the law, emphasising that no individual should be above legal accountability regardless of fame or influence. Others, particularly fans of the singer, raised concerns about due process and the treatment of Portable in custody following the viral video that captured his detention.
Legal analysts observing the case note that the outcome could hinge on the strength of the prosecution’s evidence and the presence of key witnesses, including law enforcement personnel who were allegedly assaulted during the incident. They also highlight the procedural importance of securing witness testimony in bail hearings, a factor that played a decisive role in the judge’s initial decision to deny bail.
The case has reignited a broader conversation about the challenges of managing celebrity conduct and legal obligations in Nigeria. Portable, who first rose to national prominence with the 2021 hit single that propelled his career into the spotlight, has in recent years cultivated a reputation for provocative behaviour and outspoken interactions with the public and authorities alike.
Community reactions within Ogun State, where the alleged offences took place, reflect a range of concerns over public safety, celebrity privilege and the integrity of the legal process. Some civic groups have called for a fair and transparent trial that upholds the rule of law, while others have urged stakeholders to avoid prejudging the case ahead of a full judicial determination.
As the matter returns to court later this month, prosecutors are expected to present further evidence and witnesses to support their case, while the defence will have the opportunity to contest the charges and advocate for bail or other legal relief. The unfolding proceedings will be closely watched by fans, legal observers and the broader public alike.
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