Police investigate viral video showing Portable assaulted in custody

The Ogun State Police Command has opened an investigation into a viral video that appears to show Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, being assaulted while in police custody.

The footage, widely shared on social media platforms—especially X—shows the Zazu crooner handcuffed, shirtless, and visibly distressed as he pleads tearfully while seated in what looks like a police holding area.

The video has triggered public outrage and renewed debate over police conduct and human rights.

Reports indicate that the incident allegedly took place at a detention facility in Ogun State, where Portable was said to have been beaten by some police personnel.

Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed to Vanguard that the musician is still in custody but strongly condemned the alleged assault.

“Let me give you a heads-up before my official statement comes out,” Babaseyi said. “Yes, he was arrested and is with us, but that is a different issue. What is important is the assault that was happening at the station. We don’t condone it.”

He further emphasized that filming or publicly displaying suspects is against police rules, noting that such actions compromise the safety of suspects and the integrity of investigations.

“We don’t condone videoing suspects. We don’t even put suspects’ faces out. No matter who the suspect is, nobody should be treated in such a manner,” he added.

DSP Babaseyi disclosed that an internal investigation has already commenced and assured the public that any officer found responsible would be held accountable.

“The investigation is ongoing, and the officers involved, if found culpable, will be sent to the appropriate authorities. That process has already started,” he said.

Portable’s arrest is linked to allegations of assault made by actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, also known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of his baby mamas and the mother of one of his children.

The incident reportedly occurred on January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State, where Ashabi had gone following an invitation from the singer. Reports say an argument broke out over her status in his life, with Ashabi insisting on being acknowledged as a wife, while Portable reportedly maintained that only his legally married wife, Bewaji, holds that position.

The dispute allegedly escalated into violence, with Ashabi accusing Portable of physical assault, confiscating phones, and issuing threats against her and her siblings.

In response, Portable released a lengthy video on Instagram, expressing anger over the legal action taken against him and accusing Ashabi of infidelity.