The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation after a video emerged showing Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, allegedly being assaulted while in police custody.
The footage, which has gone viral on social media, particularly X, shows the Zazu crooner handcuffed, shirtless, and tearfully pleading while seated on a couch in what appears to be a police holding area. Reports indicate that some officers allegedly beat him at the detention facility, sparking public outrage and renewed concerns about police conduct and human rights practices.
Police Public Relations Officer DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that Portable remains in custody but condemned the alleged assault. “Yes, he was arrested, and he is with us, but that is a different issue. What is important is the assault that was happening at the station. We don’t condone it,” he said.
DSP Babaseyi also stressed that recording or publicly sharing videos of suspects is prohibited, explaining that it compromises both the safety of the individuals and the integrity of ongoing investigations. “We don’t condone videoing suspects. We don’t even put suspects’ faces out. No matter who the suspect is, nobody should be treated in such a manner,” he added.
He confirmed that an internal investigation has begun and assured that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face the law. “The investigation is ongoing, and the officers involved, if found culpable, will be sent to the appropriate authorities. That process has already started,” he said.
Portable’s arrest reportedly stems from an incident involving actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of his baby mamas. The incident took place on January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State, when Ashabi visited following an invitation from the singer.
According to reports, a heated argument ensued over Ashabi’s status in Portable’s life. She insisted on being recognised as a wife, while Portable maintained that only his legally married wife, Bewaji, holds that title. The disagreement allegedly escalated into physical violence, with Ashabi claiming that Portable slapped her, beat her, seized phones, and threatened her and her siblings with an axe.
Portable later responded in a lengthy Instagram video, denying some of the allegations, expressing anger over a lawsuit filed by Ashabi, and accusing her of infidelity.
The Ogun State Police have vowed to carry out a thorough investigation into both the alleged assault and the conduct of the officers involved in Portable’s custody.
