Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, known popularly as Portable, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police following the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum issued by the Ogun State Police Command.
The “Zazoo” crooner was taken into custody on Friday, March 31, 2023, after failing to report himself to the nearest police station.
Portable had previously been captured in a viral video resisting arrest by police operatives, prompting the Ogun State Police Command to issue the ultimatum.
Abimbola Oyeyemi, the command’s spokesman, confirmed Portable’s arrest and subsequent detention at the command’s headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta.
According to Oyeyemi, the popular singer had ignored five separate invitations from the police before finally being apprehended. Portable is set to spend 72 hours in detention and will be charged in court on Monday.
The arrest has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and critics alike, with many taking to social media to express their opinions on the controversial singer’s legal troubles.
Nigerian Police to Prosecute Popular Singer Portable Over Confrontation With Officers
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced plans to prosecute popular singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, over alleged irrational behavior and insults he allegedly hurled at officers on duty.
The incident, captured in a viral video when the entertainer went on Instagram live at the event unfolded, was deemed a criminal action and punishable by the criminal laws of Nigeria.
In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, FPRO officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi described the singer’s conduct as “unruly” and likely to cause a breach of peace and incitement of violence against the officers who were detailed to execute a warrant of arrest on him for a series of allegations of criminal acts leveled against Portable.
“The NPF will take all necessary steps to investigate his actions and ensure that he is prosecuted for any criminal activity he may have committed depending on the severity of the offense,” Adejobi said.
He further stated that the police would not condone any unruly act, assault, or attack on its officers who are on lawful duty, emphasizing the need to respect law enforcement agents who work tirelessly to maintain law and order and fight crime in society.
The decision to prosecute Mr. Portable has been met with mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some criticizing the singer for his behavior, while others believe the police may be using excessive force.
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their views on the matter.
One Twitter user, @Shehusky, wrote, “Tinubu has not been sworn in but those who worked for his election are already feeling above the law. Singer Portable resists police arrest, claiming he worked for APC and he’s therefore immune to arrest. Omo if Tinubu becomes president, there will be chaos.”
Tinubu has not been sworn in but those who worked for his election are already feeling above the law. Singer Portable resists police arrest, claiming he worked for APC and he’s therefore immune to arrest. Omo if Tinubu becomes president there will be chaos.
— Shehu Gazali Sadiq (@Shehusky) March 28, 2023
Another Twitter user, @Spotlight_Abby, said, “While the Police is arresting Portable, they should not forget MC Oluomo. They both work for the same organisation, rose to fame via similar means & share similar world views. Tell me about: “I Work With Ruling APC; We Own Nigeria Now, I’m A Federal Government Liability.”
While the Police is arresting Portable, they should not forget MC Oluomo. They both work for the same organisation, rose to fame via similar means & share similar world views.
Tellmeabout:
"I Work With Ruling APC; We Own Nigeria Now, I’m A Federal Government Liability."— Spotlight on #PeterObi #Obidatti023 (@Spotlight_Abby) March 29, 2023
