Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been released after spending roughly a week in police detention.
The artiste was arraigned on January 12 before a Magistrates’ Court in Ota, Ogun State, on charges including assault, theft, causing bodily harm and resisting arrest. He was also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300, said to be worth about ₦12 million.
Portable’s bail request was denied after the investigating police officer failed to appear in court, resulting in his continued detention.
Following his release, a viral video showed the singer being joyfully received by friends and associates. In the clip, he humorously adopted a new nickname, telling supporters, “My name is now Innocenty,” to loud cheers.
Reacting to the development, Portable’s manager, Baby Luv, thanked the singer’s first wife, Bewaji, for her unwavering support during the ordeal. Posting a photo of the couple on Instagram, she wrote, “All glory to God. Grace spoke, mercy prevailed. #Freedom. She stayed when it was hardest. God honoured her faith. #Thankful.”
Portable has had several run-ins with law enforcement since rising to fame in 2022 and has reportedly been arrested and detained more than eight times across correctional facilities in Kwara, Ogun and Lagos states.