By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Popular Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, is facing fresh legal troubles following an alleged attack on government officials in Ogun State. The incident, which occurred at his Odogwu Bar around Iyana Ilogbo, has prompted a police investigation, with authorities confirming that the musician is currently in hiding.
What Led to the Incident?
The Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) recently launched a joint monitoring and auditing exercise in the Ibogun and Otta areas to check planning permit compliance and issue notices for illegal structures. Officials were carrying out their duties in the vicinity when Portable reportedly filmed a video—still available on his Instagram page—mocking and intimidating the agents. He went as far as calling himself the “town planner,” encouraging patrons at his bar to echo the title. The officials eventually left the area, apparently for their safety.
Confrontation at Portable’s Bar
On the following day, OGPDPA officials arrived at Portable’s Odogwu Bar to issue a notice regarding an alleged illegal structure. They met his father on the premises, explained the situation, and informed him that the family had a set number of days to challenge the notice if they possessed valid documentation. The father assured them that he would inform Portable upon his return.
However, the situation escalated when Portable, accompanied by a group of area boys, arrived on motorcycles. Eyewitnesses reported that the singer confronted the officials aggressively, instructing his followers to block and assault them. In the ensuing chaos, Portable allegedly slapped one of the agents while others pelted them with stones. The government officials fled into their vehicle, but Portable gave chase, forcing them to seek refuge at a nearby petrol station.
According to sources, it took the intervention of the police to rescue the agents, as the mob continued to attack them despite their attempts to find shelter.
Police Intervention and Arrests
Following the incident, security operatives arrested several individuals suspected of participating in the assault. Vehicles belonging to the suspects and others who fled the scene were also impounded. However, Portable himself reportedly escaped and has since gone into hiding.
Authorities have dismissed his claims that the government officials vandalized his property, stating that town planning agents do not have the authority to destroy structures or arrest individuals. They urged the singer to provide video evidence or file a formal complaint if he believes his property was unlawfully damaged.
Portable’s History of Clashes with Authorities
This is not the first time Portable has been involved in a confrontation with government officials. In 2023, he was arrested and arraigned by the Ogun State Police Command for allegedly assaulting law enforcement officers.
With security agencies actively searching for him, sources say Portable will likely face legal action once apprehended. Authorities have vowed to ensure that justice is served, emphasizing that no one is above the law.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Ogun State Police Command to determine the next course of action against the controversial singer.
