Controversial singer, Habeed Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over a nine-count criminal charge bordering on assault, theft, causing harm and resisting arrest.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the charges on Monday through its spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi.
Portable’s arraignment followed a viral video circulated on Sunday showing the artiste in police custody, reportedly in connection with a complaint lodged by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on New Year’s Day at the singer’s bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State, where Portable allegedly assaulted Ashabi Simple alongside several police officers and other individuals.
Other alleged victims listed in the charge include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi and Ebuka Odah.
The police further accused the singer of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at N12 million, allegedly belonging to Ileyemi Damilola and registered with automobile dealer, Wally Dex Auto.
During the court proceedings, two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses to the alleged assault. Ashabi herself, however, was absent from the court.
The prosecution also alleged that Portable obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties.
Ruling on the matter, the presiding judge denied the singer’s bail application, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge insisted on seeing the officer before considering bail.
Consequently, Portable was remanded in custody, with the court adjourning the matter until January 19 for a fresh bail hearing.
