By Ghazali Ibrahim
Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been granted bail by a Magistrate Court in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following allegations of assault on government officials.
The singer faced a five-count charge, including conspiracy, assault, obstruction, and conduct likely to cause harm, for reportedly attacking government officials with weapons.
The charges stem from an incident involving Portable and his associates, who were accused of wielding cutlasses and guns while obstructing the duties of town planners Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero. The officials had been carrying out their lawful duties at Odogwu Bar, a nightclub owned by Portable, when the alleged assault took place.
Portable pleaded not guilty to the charges, and his legal team, led by counsel Oluwatoyin Ayodele, argued for bail, stating that the singer had shown remorse for his actions.
Magistrate O. L. Oke granted him bail set at N2 million with one surety in a like sum. The case has been adjourned until March 5 for further trial.
In addition to Portable, nine of his aides, aged between 19 and 28, were also arraigned on related charges. They face allegations of felony, assault, and obstruction, all linked to the incident.
Following the charges, Portable surrendered to the Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) at the Lagos Command after being declared wanted by the Ogun State Police Command.
He was later transferred to the headquarters of the Ogun State Police Command in Eleweran, Abeokuta.
The incident has garnered significant attention due to Portable’s controversial reputation and the gravity of the charges against him.
