Controversial Nigerian street-pop musician Habeeb Okikiola, better known by his stage name Portable, has been remanded in custody and will remain detained until Monday, 19 January 2026, following his arraignment on multiple criminal charges.
The outspoken singer appeared before the Ogun State High Court in Onipanu, Ota, where prosecutors filed a nine-count charge against him, including allegations of stealing, assault, felony causing harm, and resisting arrest.
The case has attracted widespread attention across Africa’s entertainment scene, with Portable’s courtroom appearance reportedly marked by visible distress as he intermittently broke down in tears.
According to prosecutors, the charges stem from an incident on New Year’s Day at the singer’s Odogwu Bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State. Portable is accused of physically attacking one of his wives, known publicly as Ashabi Simple, as well as several other individuals and police officers.
Those named as victims include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah. The court was told that Ileyemi Damilola allegedly sustained injuries inflicted with an axe during the incident.
Prosecutors further alleged that the musician stole a Mercedes-Benz E300, valued at approximately ₦12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola David. The vehicle reportedly carried the dealer plate WAlly Dex Auto D/3 597 DOG.
Portable was arrested after reportedly evading police for several days following the altercation, which also involved the estranged mother of his two children and her sibling. While Ashabi Simple was not present in court, two of her siblings attended proceedings, claiming to be eyewitnesses to the alleged assault.
The police also accused the singer of obstructing and assaulting a female officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was performing her official duties.
Portable’s legal team applied for bail, but the request was rejected after the alleged assaulted police officer failed to appear in court. The presiding judge insisted that the officer must be present before any bail decision can be made.
The charges are said to be punishable under Sections 516, 351, 383, 389, and 390 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State (2006). The court ordered that Portable remain in custody until 19 January, when his bail application is expected to be reconsidered.
The case continues to spark debate within Nigeria’s music industry and beyond, as fans and critics alike await the next chapter in the troubled star’s legal and professional journey.
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