Portable, Nigerian singer, appears in court over assault, theft, and police obstruction allegations, with hearing adjourned to January 19 for further proceedings.
Nigerian street-hop singer, Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday over serious criminal allegations, including assault, theft, and obstruction of police duties.
The high-profile arraignment has drawn nationwide attention, with fans and critics closely following every development in the unfolding case.
The Ogun State Police Command filed a nine-count charge against Portable, which he is required to answer in court.
According to the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, the charges encompass assault occasioning harm, theft of property, resisting lawful arrest, and obstruction of police officers in the execution of their official duties.
The singer’s court appearance followed the circulation of a viral video showing him in police custody on Sunday.
Reports indicate that the arrest stemmed from a complaint reportedly filed by his estranged partner, popular actress and content creator, Ashabi Simple.
The incident is said to have occurred on New Year’s Day at Portable’s bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State.
According to the prosecution, Portable, along with some of his associates, allegedly attacked Ashabi Simple, several police officers, and other individuals during a heated confrontation at the premises.
The alleged victims listed in the charges include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.
In addition to the assault claims, Portable is accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at approximately N12 million.
The vehicle, which bore dealer identification from Wally Dex Auto, allegedly belongs to Ileyemi Damilola, one of the complainants in the case.
The theft accusation has added significant weight to the court proceedings and is considered a major component of the charges against the singer.
The police also allege that Portable forcibly obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
This specific allegation of interfering with law enforcement has been highlighted as central to the case and contributes to the gravity of the charges.
During the hearing, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared as prosecution witnesses and gave detailed accounts of the alleged assault.
Notably, Ashabi Simple herself was absent from the courtroom, although her testimony is expected to play a role in future proceedings. The testimonies of the siblings are considered crucial in corroborating the complainant’s claims.
When Portable’s legal team applied for bail, the presiding judge declined the request, citing the absence of Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, whose testimony was deemed central to determining whether bail should be granted.
The court emphasized that it must hear from the officer directly before any decision on bail could be finalized. As a result, the singer was remanded in custody pending further hearing.
The judge scheduled the next court session for January 19, 2026, during which the bail application may be reconsidered, and additional evidence may be presented.
Legal experts have noted that the combination of assault, theft, and obstruction of police duties could result in significant penalties if Portable is convicted on all counts.
Public reaction to the case has been divided. While some fans of Portable argue that the singer is being unfairly targeted, others insist that the charges underscore the importance of accountability, even for celebrities.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with debates over the singer’s alleged actions, reflecting the widespread public interest in the proceedings.
Law enforcement officials have maintained that the case is being handled with utmost professionalism and in strict accordance with Nigerian law.
The Ogun State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is served, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of social status, is above the law.
As the case continues to unfold, legal analysts predict that the January 19 hearing will be pivotal in determining the direction of Portable’s legal journey.
Observers are particularly focused on the testimony of the allegedly assaulted police officer, which may influence the court’s decision on bail and subsequent trial proceedings.
Ireport247news
