Court denies Portable bail after arraignment

A Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, has declined to grant bail to controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, following his arraignment over multiple criminal charges, including assault and resisting arrest.

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed on Tuesday that the singer was arrested, arraigned, and remanded in custody on Monday.

“Yes, he was arraigned and remanded yesterday,” Babaseyi said.

Portable’s arraignment followed a viral video that emerged on Sunday showing him handcuffed, shirtless, and tearfully pleading while seated in what appeared to be a police holding facility.

According to the prosecution, the charges stem from an alleged assault on actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, one of the singer’s baby mamas and the mother of two of his children.

Vanguard reported that the prosecution told the court that the “Zazu” crooner allegedly attacked Ashabi, police officers, and other individuals at his bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area on New Year’s Day.

Other alleged victims listed in the charge sheet include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.

The prosecution also alleged that Portable stole a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola and linked to car dealer Wally Dex Auto.

During the hearing, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses to the alleged assault, although Ashabi herself was not present in court.

Police further accused the singer of obstructing and assaulting a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties.

In his ruling, the presiding judge refused the bail application, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge held that the officer must be present before a decision on bail could be taken and consequently ordered that Portable be remanded in custody, adjourning the bail hearing to January 19.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a separate viral video allegedly showing the singer being assaulted while in police custody.