Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has addressed the allegations of assault and obstruction against him, maintaining that he is innocent.
The singer asserted that he neither engaged in a fight nor assaulted anyone.
This follows an incident between Portable and officials of the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) at his bar in Iyana Ilogbo, Ota.
The Ogun State government alleged that the singer obstructed, restricted, and assaulted town planning officials while they were performing their duties.
In the aftermath of the incident, nine of his associates were arrested and brought before a Magistrates’ Court on multiple charges, including armed violence, obstruction, and attempted murder. Meanwhile, Portable is said to be on the run.
Amid the dispute, the Ogun State government closed his bar and denounced his actions.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, labelled Portable a “serial dissident and unrepentant rascal,” promising that he would face legal consequences for his actions.
In reaction, Portable posted a video on social media on Saturday, denying the allegations and maintaining that he did not engage in any fight and was falsely accused.
He partly said, “It’s a youth matter, I’m a small boy. I didn’t fight anybody. I might be troublesome, but this time, I was asleep when they came to my house and bar, asking everyone to leave.”
“They went to an academy where I help young people—not just musicians but also tailors, carpenters, and bricklayers.”
“The elders, the owners of the earth, have lied against us. My glory will defeat my enemies. That house is where I buried my mother when I was 13.”
“They came and destroyed my bar, took my properties, injured my apprentices, and beat my customers before sending them home.”
“My fans, I swear to God, I didn’t fight anyone. Let them show proof that I did.”
