Drama Unfolds: Controversial Singer Portable Surrenders to Police Amid Assault Investigation
In a dramatic turn of events, controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, surrendered himself to the authorities on Wednesday amidst an escalating legal storm.
The Lagos State Police Command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that Portable voluntarily turned himself in at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba, before being transferred to Ogun State. Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer Omolola Odutola further confirmed Portable’s arrival at the State CID in Abeokuta at precisely 1:23 pm.
Odutola’s statement emphasized that Portable’s case would be handled with due diligence. “His presence is in connection with an ongoing investigation. The public is assured that the case will follow due process,” she said. She also warned against spreading unverified rumors and stressed that Portable’s celebrity status would not grant him any special treatment.
Storm of Allegations
The singer is being investigated over a violent altercation with officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development during an enforcement operation at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Ota. Portable allegedly arrived at the scene armed with a firearm and led a group of nine thugs to assault the officials, who reportedly sustained injuries but managed to flee.
Following the attack, nine of Portable’s alleged accomplices were arrested, while the singer reportedly went into hiding. The Ogun State Police Command, frustrated by his failure to respond to multiple formal invitations, obtained a court order declaring him wanted.
Portable’s Rant: “I’m a Federal Government Liability”
In typical fashion, Portable took to social media on Tuesday to rant about the allegations. The singer declared he was mentally unstable and under psychiatric care at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, in Abeokuta. “I am a madman. I have medications I take. You can confirm from Aro Hospital. I have a card that certifies me as their patient,” he claimed.
Portable also alleged he was being targeted due to his support for Ogun West Senator Adeola Solomon, known as “Yayi.” He vehemently denied the assault charges, insisting that he helps people and is not a criminal.
Arraignment of Portable’s Associates
Meanwhile, nine of Portable’s alleged accomplices have already faced the Magistrate Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, on charges including assault, felony, unlawful restriction, possession of weapons, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace. The defendants pleaded not guilty and are awaiting further proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation
Odutola confirmed that Portable’s trial dates are yet to be set, but the police are determined to ensure justice is served. “Portable is a Nigerian and should not be treated as if he is above the law,” she reiterated.
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on Portable, whose volatile reputation and frequent outbursts have now landed him at the center of a legal firestorm. Whether he will emerge unscathed or face the full weight of the law remains to be seen.