On Thursday, Magistrate O.L. Oke of the Ogun State Magistrate Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, granted bail to controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, in the amount of N2 million, along with a surety for the same sum.
Gatekeepers News reports that Portable faces five charges, including conspiracy, assault, possession of lethal weapons such as cutlasses and guns, and behaving in a disorderly manner. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him.
The charges stem from an incident involving allegations that Portable assaulted three officials from the Ogun Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA). Following the arrest and arraignment of his associates by the Ogun State Police Command, Portable reportedly went into hiding.
Several individuals associated with Portable—ranging in age from 19 to 28—were also arraigned on multiple charges, which include armed violence, felony, obstruction, assault, disturbance of peace, and intent to kill.
During the court proceedings, the 31-year-old musician appeared visibly distressed, shaking and shedding tears. The session was briefly paused for 30 minutes while the State Government took over the case from the Commissioner of Police.
Defending Portable, attorney Oluwatoyin Ayodele requested bail, emphasizing that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by the court. Ayodele assured the court that Portable would not abscond and would indeed face trial.
Her words “My Lord, I pray that you exercise patience on Habeeb Okikiola by granting him bail. This bail is for him to properly stand his trial.
“He is still innocent until the court proves otherwise. I promise that he will appear before his trial. My Lord, I promise that he will not miss any court appearance.
Magistrate O.L Oke warned that the defendant must for no reason appear on social media to discuss anything pertaining to the court or cause mayhem to anyone.
“ If you leave this court room and for any reason go to any social media platform to say anything about the court, you will lose your bail.
“ If you leave and go foment trouble or problem with anybody, you will lose that bail.
“ If you miss any court appearances or arrive late, you will lose your bail”. Magistrate Oke said.
When the court asked if he is mentally alright or should be sent to a psychiatric home, Portable replied that he is alright and healthy.
The case was, however, adjourned to March 5th.
