Portable Regains Freedom After Week-Long Detention, Declares New Nickname ‘Innocenty’
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has regained his freedom after spending about one week in police custody following his arraignment over multiple criminal allegations in Ogun State.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the Zazu crooner was arraigned on January 12 before a Magistrates’ Court sitting in Ota, Ogun State, on charges bordering on assault, theft, causing harm and resisting arrest.
Portable was also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300, reportedly valued at ₦12 million.
During the court proceedings, the singer was denied bail after the police officer handling the case failed to appear in court.
The absence of the officer stalled the hearing, resulting in Portable’s continued detention pending further legal action.
However, the singer was released after about a week in custody, sparking widespread reactions both online and offline.
Shortly after regaining his freedom, a video surfaced on social media showing Portable surrounded by friends and associates who welcomed him back with jubilation.
In the viral clip, the visibly excited singer jokingly announced a new nickname for himself, declaring, “My name is now Innocenty,” as his supporters cheered and celebrated his release.
Reacting to the development, Portable’s manager, Baby Luv, took to Instagram to express gratitude and appreciation, particularly to the singer’s first wife, Bewaji, for standing by him throughout the ordeal.
Sharing a photo of Portable with Bewaji, she wrote, “All glory to God. Grace spoke, mercy prevailed. #Freedom. She stayed when it was hardest. God honoured her faith #Thankful.”
OTN News observes that Portable’s latest release added to a long list of legal troubles that have trailed his career since he rose to fame in 2022.
The singer has been arrested, arraigned and remanded on several occasions, reportedly more than eight times, across correctional facilities in Kwara, Ogun and Lagos states.
Despite his recurring run-ins with law enforcement, Portable remains one of Nigeria’s most talked-about street-pop artists, often drawing public attention for both his music and his controversial lifestyle.
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