Magistrate O.L. Oke, presiding over an Ogun State Magistrate Court located in Isabo, Abeokuta, on Thursday, sanctioned bail for the contentious musician, Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, in the amount of N2 million, accompanied by a surety of equivalent value.
Portable is confronted with a five-count indictment encompassing conspiracy, assault, possession of a cutlass, firearms with intent to inflict harm, and engaging in disorderly conduct.
The defendant, nevertheless, entered a plea of not guilty to all allegations presented against him.
According to reports, Portable was summoned to court by the Ogun State police authority for purportedly assaulting three officials representing the Ogun Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA).
Following the arrest and subsequent arraignment of his associates by the Ogun State Police Command, the singer reportedly sought refuge.
The individuals implicated, namely Oluwaseun Ayenuwa, 19; Precious Ohiegebo, 19; Oluwapelumi Adeosun, 20; Gospel Kanu, 20; Nurudeen Warris, 21; Adetola Alashe, 25; Fatimo Muhammed, 26; Ifeoluwa Babatunde, 27; and Samuel Adeleke, 28, were charged with a five-count accusation involving armed violence utilizing cutlasses and firearms, felony offenses, obstruction, assault, actions likely to disturb public peace, and intent to commit homicide.
Upon his appearance before the court, the 31-year-old Zazoo artist was observed exhibiting signs of distress, including trembling and tears.
CREEBHILLS further reports that the proceedings were temporarily halted for a duration of 30 minutes as the State Government intervened in the case, taking over from the Commissioner of Police.
The defense attorney, Oluwatoyin Ayodele, appealed to the court for the release of the defendant on bail, emphasizing that the defendant retains the presumption of innocence until such time as the court may determine otherwise.
Ayodele provided assurances to the court that the defendant would comply with bail conditions and would appear for trial as required.
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.
