The legal woes of Afrobeats artist Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, reached a critical peak on Monday as he was formally arraigned before the Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State. Confronted with a rigorous nine-count criminal charge, the “Zazu” crooner was remanded in custody following a session that highlighted both his alleged offenses and concerns over his treatment while in detention.
The prosecution’s case centers on a chaotic altercation that allegedly erupted on New Year’s Day at the singer’s business premises in Iyana Ilogbo. The incident was reportedly triggered by a dispute involving his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple. According to court filings, the disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation where Portable allegedly attacked Ashabi, along with several other individuals and police personnel.
The charge sheet identifies a list of victims, including Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah. Beyond the allegations of assault and causing bodily harm, Portable also faces a significant charge of resisting arrest and obstructing a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
Adding a new layer of complexity to the trial is the accusation of grand theft. Portable has been linked to the alleged stealing of a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million. The vehicle, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola, is reportedly tied to a local car dealership, Wally Dex Auto. This specific count significantly raises the stakes of the trial, moving the case beyond personal disputes into high-value criminal litigation.
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While Ashabi Simple was notably absent from the Monday proceedings, the courtroom heard emotional testimony from two of her siblings, who appeared as witnesses to the alleged assault. The defense’s plea for bail met a major hurdle when the presiding judge insisted on a standard of personal verification.
Citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, the judge declined to grant bail at this time. The court ruled that the officer must be present in person before any bail application could be finalized. Consequently, Portable was remanded in custody, with a fresh hearing set for January 19.