Habeeb Okikiola, aka Portable, is back in the spotlight, but this time, it’s not for his music. The controversial singer has turned himself in to the authorities, walking into the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Lagos, on Wednesday morning.
Lagos State Police Command spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed Portable’s surrender, adding that the Ogun State Command had been contacted for his transfer. Hours later, at exactly 1:23 PM, the self-styled “Zazoo” crooner arrived at the Ogun SCID in Abeokuta.
What’s the case about?
Portable’s latest brush with the law stems from a reported attack on three government officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development in Ota. The officials—TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef, and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi—were allegedly assaulted while enforcing urban planning laws.
According to reports, Portable’s father initially intercepted the officials at Odogwu Bar, claiming the singer wasn’t around. But moments later, Portable allegedly stormed the scene, brandishing a firearm and leading nine men in a violent attack. The officials, who reportedly suffered injuries, managed to escape and report the incident.
In response, the police arrested nine of Portable’s alleged accomplices while the singer fled. After multiple failed invitations to appear at the police command, authorities secured a court order declaring him wanted.
Portable’s response: "I’m a Madman"
Before his surrender, Portable went on a social media rant, claiming he was a victim of a political setup. In a viral video, he blamed his legal troubles on his recent support for Ogun West Senator Adeola Solomon, aka Yayi.
“I fear government. I am a federal government liability. I am a madman; I have medications that I usually take. You can confirm from Aro Hospital. I have a card that certifies me as one of their patients,” he declared.
The singer also insisted he was not a criminal: “I am not a thief; I help people around me without even looking at their background.”
What’s Next for Portable?
Ogun police spokeswoman Omolola Odutola assured that the case would proceed like any other, with due process followed. “Police will investigate. Portable is a Nigerian and should not be made like he is too important,” she stated.
Asked about possible arraignment, she responded, “I can’t say when, but the case will run its course.”
Meanwhile, Portable’s nine co-defendants ranging from 19 to 28 years old have been arraigned at a Magistrate Court in Abeokuta, facing charges of felony, assault, unlawful restriction, possession of weapons, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace. They all pleaded not guilty.
As the legal drama unfolds, Portable remains under investigation. Whether he’ll find himself in court or back on the streets remains to be seen.
