Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been declared at large as the Ogun State Police Command arraigned nine of his associates before an Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday over allegations of assault, armed violence, and obstruction of government officials.
The 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)—faced multiple felony charges, including assault, armed violence with cutlasses and guns, conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, and intent to kill.
According to Police Prosecutor Sunday Ekong, the alleged offences occurred on Wednesday at about 10:00 AM at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.
Ekong told the court that Portable and his associates unlawfully attacked, obstructed, and assaulted town planning officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—who had visited Odogwu Bar, Portable’s business premises, to enforce town planning laws.
The police further alleged that the suspects brandished dangerous weapons, including cutlasses and guns, and acted in a manner likely to incite violence and endanger lives. The charges are in violation of Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code (2006).
Presiding Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted bail to each defendant at ₦5 million, with sureties who must be licensed bond agents registered with the Ogun State Government. The case has been adjourned to March 17 for further hearings.
Meanwhile, Portable remains on the run, as police intensify efforts to apprehend him.
Taking to social media, Portable expressed frustration and outrage over the authorities’ actions, alleging that over 20 artists, customers, cars, bikes, and phones were seized in the raid.
In a now-viral Instagram video, the controversial singer lamented:
> “Why will they do that to my property that I am using to feed my family? They packed everybody—more than 20 people, including artists and customers—and confiscated cars, bikes, and people’s phones. Why?”
> “Government should please look into this. I’m using this place to book events and shows, not just to sell drinks. I’m promoting people and helping the community. Why attack me, especially when I’ve been helping with streetlights and road repairs?”
“God is greater than them,” he concluded defiantly.
The incident is believed to have been triggered by the sealing of Portable’s uncompleted building and hotel by the Ogun State Town Planning Office, citing illegal development without necessary permits.
With Portable now on the police’s radar, and his associates facing serious criminal charges, the unfolding drama has sparked heated debates about his legal troubles, alleged defiance of the law, and his ongoing feud with government authorities.
As the case progresses, all eyes remain on the controversial singer and whether he will surrender or continue to evade arrest.
PIONEER NEWS 