A warrant for the arrest of Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been issued by the Magistrate Court in Ogun State. The warrant stems from an incident on February 5, 2025, in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Ota, Ogun State, where Portable and his associates allegedly assaulted officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The officials were reportedly attacked while attempting to seal Portable’s establishment, Odogwu Bar, due to alleged illegal development without proper permits. The charges against Portable include conspiracy, serious assault, going armed, conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, and attempted murder.
Following the incident, nine of Portable’s associates were arrested and arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta. The defendants, aged between 19 and 28, faced charges including armed violence with cutlasses and guns, felony, obstruction, assault, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and intent to kill. All pleaded not guilty and were granted bail of N5 million each, with sureties who are licensed bond agents registered with the Ogun State government. The case has been adjourned until March 17, 2025, for further hearing.
Portable, who remains at large, has publicly appealed for intervention in the matter. He has sought assistance from President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intercede with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun on his behalf. Additionally, Portable has expressed a desire for legal representation by human rights activist Femi Falana, praising him as a “man of the people” who stands up for justice.
The situation has garnered significant public attention, with discussions surrounding the legality of the property development, the alleged assault on government officials, and Portable’s subsequent appeals for intervention and legal support.
