Controversial Nigerian singer, Portable, has been remanded in prison custody after a Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, denied him bail on Monday. The artist was arraigned on a nine-count criminal charge brought against him by the police.
Details of the Criminal Charges
The Ogun State Police Command, through its spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi, presented the charges which include serious allegations. Portable is accused of assault, theft, causing bodily harm, and resisting arrest. The case stems from an incident reported to have occurred on New Year's Day at the singer's bar located in the Iyana Ilogbo area.
The prosecution alleged that the singer attacked his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, alongside several police officers and other individuals. Other victims named in the case are Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.
In a significant allegation, Portable was also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 belonging to Ileyemi. The vehicle, with dealer number Wally Dex Auto, is said to be valued at N12 million.
Court Proceedings and Witness Testimony
During the court session, two siblings of Ashabi Simple appeared as witnesses to testify about the alleged assault, although Ashabi herself was not present. The police further intensified their case by accusing Portable of specifically obstructing and assaulting a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties.
The arraignment followed the circulation of a viral video on Sunday which showed the singer already in police custody. His detention was reportedly linked to an initial complaint filed by Ashabi Simple.
Bail Denied and Remand Order
The presiding judge took a firm stance on the bail application presented by Portable's legal team. The judge refused to grant bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, in court. The court insisted on seeing the officer before making a ruling on the bail request.
As a direct consequence of this decision, Portable was ordered to be remanded in custody. The court scheduled a fresh hearing for the consideration of bail for January 19. This means the singer will remain in prison until at least that date while the legal process continues.
The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues of celebrity conduct and the enforcement of law. The court's decision to remand Portable underscores the seriousness with which the allegations, particularly those involving an attack on a police officer, are being treated.
