Following his arraignment on Wednesday, the Ogun State Magistrate Court in Abeokuta granted renowned controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi, popularly known as Portable, a bail of N2 million on Thursday. The decision comes amid a high-profile case in which Portable faces a five-count charge—including conspiracy, assault with cutlasses and guns, and conduct likely to cause harm—for his alleged involvement in the assault of government officials.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Portable’s legal troubles began when he voluntarily walked into the Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) at the Lagos Command on Wednesday morning, following a wanted declaration by the Ogun Command. He was subsequently transferred to the Ogun Command headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, where he was arraigned before Magistrate O. L. Oke. Despite the gravity of the charges, the singer pleaded not guilty to all counts.
His counsel, Oluwatoyin Ayodele, asserted that Portable was genuinely remorseful for his actions. This assurance played a pivotal role in the court’s decision to grant bail with one surety, setting the stage for a trial rescheduled for March 5.
Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, Portable’s nine protégés—aged between 19 and 28—were previously arraigned on February 6 on similar charges. The suspects are accused of assaulting, restricting, and obstructing three town planning officers—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—while the officials were executing their duties at Odogwu Bar, a venue owned by a popular hip-hop musician.
The case has sparked significant public debate, with local authorities and community leaders voicing strong opinions on the matter. Earlier reports highlighted condemnations from various state officials over the incident, reflecting deep concerns about the escalation of violence involving public figures.
As the trial date of March 5 approaches, legal experts and the public alike will be watching closely for further developments. The case not only underscores the legal challenges facing high-profile celebrities but also raises broader questions about accountability and public conduct among influential figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Related: https://symfoninews.com/singer-portable-declared-himself-a-mad-man-surr/
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