JUST IN: Court Sends Portable to Prison Over Alleged Car Theft

The Federal High Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, has ordered the remand of controversial street-hop artist Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, following his arraignment on a series of criminal charges.

The singer appeared before the court on Monday to face a nine-count charge involving alleged car theft, assault, and the obstruction of police officers during their official duties.

The legal woes for the “Zazu” crooner intensified after the Ogun State Police Command filed a formal case against him.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, the charges are rooted in a series of violent altercations and the alleged illegal conversion of property.

Central to the prosecution’s case is the accusation that Portable stole a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at N12 million. The vehicle, linked to a dealer identified as Wally Dex Auto, reportedly belongs to one of the complainants, Ileyemi Damilola.

Beyond the theft allegations, the prosecution detailed a violent incident that occurred on New Year’s Day at the singer’s bar in the Iyana Ilogbo area of Ogun State.

It was alleged that Portable, acting with several associates, launched an attack on his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, and several other individuals.

The police further alleged that the singer did not stop at assaulting civilians. The court heard how Portable reportedly used force to obstruct and assault a female police officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was attempting to carry out a lawful arrest.

This specific count of assaulting a uniformed officer proved to be a significant hurdle for the singer’s defense team.

During the proceedings, two of Ashabi Simple’s siblings took the stand as prosecution witnesses, providing testimonies regarding the alleged violence. Notably, Ashabi Simple herself was not present in the courtroom.

When Portable’s lawyers moved for a bail application, the presiding judge turned down the request. The judge cited a major procedural necessity, insisting that the court must personally hear from the assaulted officer, Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi.

The court maintained that her testimony is vital to determining whether the singer is fit for bail.

Consequently, the court ordered that Portable be remanded in custody until the next adjourned date.

The matter has been shifted to January 19 for a fresh hearing, at which point the court may reconsider the bail application depending on the presence of the witnesses.