The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, being assaulted while in police custody.
The video, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms, shows the singer handcuffed, shirtless and visibly distressed, pleading while seated in what appears to be a police holding area. The footage has sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over police conduct and human rights practices.
Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that Portable remains in custody but strongly 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,” Babaseyi said.
He stressed that the filming or public display of suspects is against police regulations, noting that such actions compromise the safety of suspects and the integrity of 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.
DSP Babaseyi disclosed that the command has commenced an internal investigation and assured that any officer found culpable would be sanctioned in line with 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 is linked to allegations of assault made by actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, also known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of the singer’s baby mamas and the mother of one of his children.
The alleged incident reportedly occurred on January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State, where Ashabi had visited following an invitation from the musician. Reports indicate that a disagreement over her status in his life escalated into a confrontation.
Ashabi reportedly accused the singer of physically assaulting her, seizing phones and threatening her and her siblings with an axe.
The musician has since responded to the allegations in a video posted on social media, denying wrongdoing and accusing Ashabi of infidelity while expressing anger over the legal action taken against him.