Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has called on his fans for prayers and support as he faces legal troubles with the Ogun State government. The controversial artist, known for his street-hop music and outspoken personality, is currently dealing with the closure of his unfinished building and hotel.
It was reported that the Ogun State government sealed off Portable’s properties due to alleged violations of development regulations. The action also led to the detention of some of his workers and customers, further escalating tensions between the singer and state authorities.
On Thursday, the Ogun State Police arraigned nine of Portable’s associates before the Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta. The individuals were charged with various offenses, including assault, obstruction, possession of weapons, and conduct likely to disturb public peace.
The accused persons include 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). The charges also include an alleged attempt to kill, further intensifying the seriousness of the case.
According to police prosecutor Sunday Ekong, the alleged offenses took place on Wednesday around 10:00 a.m. in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota. He stated that Portable, who is currently on the run, along with his associates, attacked officials from the Ota Zonal Planning Office of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—were reportedly obstructed and assaulted while carrying out their duties at Portable’s Odogwu Bar. The accused individuals allegedly used weapons, including cutlasses and guns, to intimidate the government officials.
After all nine individuals pleaded not guilty, Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted them bail at ₦5 million each. The court also required sureties who are licensed bondmen registered with the Ogun State government. The case has been adjourned until March 17 for further proceedings.
Reacting to the legal battle, Portable expressed his frustration over the situation, claiming that despite his contributions to the community, he is being unfairly targeted. He highlighted his efforts in fixing roads and installing streetlights, questioning why the government was treating him this way.
The singer also announced that he has canceled his upcoming show in London to focus on protecting his family and properties. Sharing his concerns on Instagram, he wrote, “Zazuu Zeh. I need to protect my family and property first. London see you later, no be today man dey travel dey make money. Music is my way, if life dey, man go still go many places.”
He further pleaded with his fans for prayers and support, emphasizing that his only goal was to help his people. “Eyin fans mi, all I need now is prayer and support. If you spoil me for who love me, you go dey die young. Make una sha support me. Make I dey free my people wey dey back, na help I dey help them,” he said.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Portable remains defiant, expressing faith in divine intervention. “On God, my glory go kill my enemy. I believe in God. Any disappointment is a blessing, man no be God,” he concluded.
