Portable Speaks from Hiding, Sparks Suicide Concerns Amid Ogun Govt Dispute

 Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has spoken out from hiding, raising concerns about his mental state while pleading with the Ogun State Government.

Portable reportedly went into hiding after he and his associates allegedly assaulted officials from the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA). The officials had visited his Odogwu Bar and Restaurant to seal the property over a lack of permits and insufficient air space.

Providing his version of the incident, Portable claimed that government officials stormed his bar, arresting over 20 people—including artists and customers—and confiscating vehicles, gadgets, and personal belongings. However, Ogun State Commissioner for Physical Planning dismissed Portable’s claims as “spurious and blatant falsehood.”

Following the altercation, the Ogun State Police Command arraigned nine of Portable’s associates before a magistrate’s court in Isabo, Abeokuta. The defendants, aged between 19 and 28, were charged with felony, assault, obstruction, and conduct likely to breach public peace. They pleaded not guilty and were granted bail at ₦5 million each, with sureties required to be state-licensed bond agents. The case was adjourned to March 17 for further hearings.

On Saturday, Portable broke his silence on Instagram, pleading for the release of his associates, whom he described as apprentices learning trades. He denied the allegations of assault and challenged the authorities to provide video evidence to back their claims.

In a distressing revelation, the Zazoo Zeh crooner admitted that the stress of the situation had driven him to contemplate suicide. He stated, “I am from a humble background. I did not fight with anybody until you set me up. Although you get money by looking for trouble, I did not fight anyone.”

Lamenting his struggles, Portable continued, “They came to the house I am building and took my boys. I am taking care of their kids. They lied against us. My glory will kill my enemies. The land they sealed is where I exhumed my mother’s corpse. I later built a mansion on it.”

He insisted on his innocence, questioning, “Did they find Indian hemp with me? I am begging you in God’s name. Help me release those boys. I am already in deep thought. I must not commit suicide. I did not do anything. You cannot kill me.”

As concerns grow over his safety, many fans and industry colleagues have urged authorities to intervene and ensure a fair resolution to the matter.