Nine proteges of popular Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, also known as Portable, were arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, Ogun State, for allegedly assaulting officers of the Ota Zonal Planning office of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The defendants, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, were accused of committing felony, assault, and restriction, as well as conducting themselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of public peace.
According to the Police Prosecutor, Sunday Ekong, the defendants, along with Portable, who is currently at large, unlawfully assaulted and obstructed three town planning officers, Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero, while they were performing their lawful duties at Portable’s bar, Odogwu Bar.
The defendants were granted bail in the sum of N5 million each with sureties who are licensed bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Government. The case was adjourned until March 17 for hearing.
The incident occurred after the Ogun State Government sealed Portable’s uncompleted building and hotel due to alleged illegal development without an approval permit. Portable had expressed frustration over the government’s action, alleging that over 20 people were arrested and properties confiscated.
