By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
Nine associates of popular Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, have been arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, for allegedly assaulting officers from the Ota Zonal Planning office.
The defendants, aged between 19 and 28, pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include felony, assault, and restriction .
According to Police Prosecutor Sunday Ekong, the defendants, along with Portable, who is currently at large, unlawfully assaulted, restricted, and obstructed three town planning officers – Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero – while they were performing their duties at Portable’s Odogwu Bar .
The defendants were accused of being armed with cutlasses and guns, engaging in conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and having the intent to kill.
Ekong stated that the acts committed violated Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Criminal Code laws of Ogun 2006.
Magistrate Mrs. O.M. Somefun granted the defendants bail in the amount of N5 million each, with sureties who are licensed bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Government.
The case has been adjourned until March 17 for further hearing.
The incident is reportedly linked to the Ogun State Government’s shutdown of Portable’s incomplete building and hotel due to alleged illegal development without an approved permit.
Portable had voiced his frustration on social media, claiming that the government’s raid led to the arrest of over 20 people and the confiscation of properties.
