Portable on the Run as Police Arraign Nine Associates for Assaulting Government Officials

Portable on the Run as Police Arraign Nine Associates for Assaulting Government Officials

Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria – In a high-stakes drama unfolding in Ogun State, controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, is reportedly evading arrest. Meanwhile, police have arraigned nine of his associates before an Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court, charging them with multiple offenses, including felony, assault, and obstructing government officials.

The Incident and Legal Proceedings

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, chaos erupted at the Odogwu Bar, owned by Portable, located in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota. Police Prosecutor Sunday Ekong detailed how the defendants, alongside Portable, unlawfully assaulted and obstructed town planners Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero. The town planners were performing their official duties when they were confronted by the accused, armed with cutlasses and guns.

The arraigned suspects, identified as 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 charges of felony, assault, armed violence, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, with the intent to kill.

Portable's Response and Public Reaction

Amid the unfolding legal saga, Portable remains at large, but he has taken to social media to voice his grievances. On Instagram, he condemned the sealing of his property by the State Town Planning Office, attributing it to illegal development without permits. Portable claimed that the authorities confiscated assets, including over 20 artists, customers' cars, bikes, and phones. He lamented, “Why will they do that to my property that I am using to feed my family?”

Legal Ramifications and Bail Conditions

Magistrate Mrs. O.M. Somefun granted bail to the defendants, each in the sum of ₦5 million, with sureties who are licensed bond agents registered with the Ogun State government. The case was adjourned to March 17, 2025, for further hearing, leaving the public and legal experts speculating about the potential outcomes.

This incident has ignited a heated debate about the balance between governmental regulation of business activities and the rights of business owners. Supporters of Portable argue that the government's actions were excessive, while critics insist that Portable and his associates must be held accountable for their actions.

The unfolding drama surrounding Portable and his associates' alleged assault on government officials has captivated public attention. As the legal proceedings continue, the case will not only impact the individuals involved but also set a precedent for similar cases in the future. With the spotlight on Portable and his evading arrest, the outcome of this high-profile case remains uncertain.