Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, is on the run after nine of his associates were arraigned in court for allegedly assaulting officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The incident took place at his establishment, Odogwu Bar, in the Sango-Ota area of the state.
The nine suspects—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)—were brought before the Magistrates’ Court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta.
The police accused them of committing five offenses, including felony, assault, unlawful restriction, possession of weapons, and conduct likely to cause a public disturbance. According to the prosecutor, Sunday Ekong, the incident happened around 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at Oke-Osa in Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota.
Ekong told the court that the accused, along with Portable, who is currently at large, physically attacked three government officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—while they were carrying out their official duties. He stated that the town planners were obstructed, assaulted, and threatened with dangerous weapons, which could have led to serious harm or even death.
The charges, according to Ekong, violate sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Law of 2006.
All nine suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges. Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted them bail, setting the amount at N5 million each, with sureties who are registered bondmen recognized by the Ogun State government. The case was then adjourned to March 17 for further hearing.
This legal trouble follows a recent clash between Portable and the Ogun State Government over the sealing of his uncompleted building and hotel. The government claimed the property was developed illegally without proper approval.
In response, Portable took to social media, claiming that the government’s action led to the arrest of over 20 people, including musicians, customers, and individuals who sought his help. He further alleged that officials seized cars, motorcycles, and mobile phones during the raid.
The singer also insisted that his establishment was being used for entertainment events, not just as a bar.
