Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi, the controversial singer popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned at the Isabo magistrate court in Abeokuta, Ogun.

 

The singer was declared wanted by the police on February 18 in connection with an alleged assault on three officials from the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA).

 

Portable surrendered himself to the police in Lagos on Wednesday. He was handed over to the Ogun state police command and presented in court on Thursday to face charges.

 

The controversy began on February 5 when OGPDPA officials attempted to seal Portable’s bar due to a lack of approved permits and insufficient air space.

 

Portable allegedly led a gang in a violent attack on the unarmed officials, who sustained injuries but managed to escape.

 

The altercation led to the arrest and arraignment of nine of Portable’s associates on a five-count charge, including armed violence, felony, obstruction, assault, and intent to kill.

 

They were granted bail of N5 million each with sureties licensed bond agents registered with the state government. The case was adjourned until March 17 for further hearing.

 

Portable had been on the run since February 5. He had also made various excuses to evade arrest, including claiming to be a “madman” undergoing treatment at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta.

 

Portable recently sought the assistance of Femi Falana, the human rights lawyer.

 

He had earlier pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter.