The Ogun State Police on Thursday arraigned nine associates of popular singer Habeeb Okikiola, also known as Portable, before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta. They were accused of assaulting officials from the Ota Zonal Planning Office under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The individuals charged include Nurudeen Warris (21), Adetola Alashe (25), Samuel Adeleke (28), Oluwaseun Ayenuwa (19), Oluwapelumi Adeosun (20), Gospel Kanu (20), Precious Ohiegebo (19), Ifeoluwa Babatunde (27), and Fatimo Muhammed (26).
The charges against them involve five counts, including felony, assault, obstruction, possession of dangerous weapons such as cutlasses and firearms, and conduct likely to cause public disturbance.
During the court proceedings, the defendants pleaded not guilty.
The police prosecutor, Sunday Ekong, stated that the alleged offences took place on Wednesday at approximately 10:00 a.m. in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota.
Ekong explained, “The defendants, along with Portable, who is currently at large, unlawfully assaulted and obstructed three town planning officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—while they were performing their official duties.”
He further alleged that the group was armed with cutlasses and firearms and had intentions of harming the officials.
The prosecutor cited that the charges violate Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Law of 2006.
Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted each defendant bail set at N5 million, with the condition that their sureties must be licensed bondmen registered with the Ogun State government. The case was adjourned to March 17 for further proceedings.
This development follows Portable’s recent frustration over the Ogun State Government’s decision to seal his uncompleted building and hotel. A letter shared on social media indicated that the government took action due to unauthorized construction without proper permits.
Portable alleged in a social media post that more than 20 individuals, including artistes, customers, and others associated with him, were arrested. He also claimed that authorities confiscated vehicles, motorcycles, and mobile phones.
The singer defended his use of the building, stating that it served as a venue for hosting events and performances, not merely for selling drinks.
