Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been remanded in custody following his arraignment before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over alleged assault and car theft.
Portable was on Monday docked on a nine-count charge bordering on assault, theft, causing bodily harm and resisting arrest, according to the Ogun State Police Command.
His arraignment followed the circulation of a viral video on Sunday showing the singer in police custody. The case is reportedly linked to a complaint lodged by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
Prosecutors told the court that the incident occurred on New Year’s Day at Portable’s bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State, where the singer allegedly attacked Ashabi, several police officers and other individuals.
Those listed as victims in the charge sheet include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The singer was also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, said to belong 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 alleged that Portable obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
The presiding judge declined to grant the singer bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge ruled that the officer must appear before a decision on bail could be taken.
Consequently, Portable was remanded in custody, with the bail application adjourned to January 19.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has ordered an investigation into a separate viral video purportedly showing the singer being assaulted while in police custody.
