Police begin probe as viral video shows Portable in handcuffs

The Ogun State Police Command has launched an internal investigation following the circulation of a viral video showing Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, being allegedly assaulted while in police custody.

The footage, which surfaced on social media platforms including X, depicts the “Zazu” crooner shirtless and in handcuffs, tearfully pleading while seated on a couch in what appears to be a police detention facility.

The video has sparked widespread public outrage and renewed debates regarding human rights and police conduct in Nigeria.

The Police Public Relations Officer for the command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed Portable’s arrest but strongly condemned the treatment shown in the video.

“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 told Vanguard.

The PPRO emphasised that the filming of suspects is strictly prohibited under police regulations.

VIDEO: ‘Baba Oko Bournvita,’ Portable drags his father, alleges bad parenting, extortion

“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 stated, adding that the command has already begun identifying the officers involved.

Babaseyi assured the public that any personnel found culpable would face legal and disciplinary consequences, noting that the investigative process has already commenced.

Portable’s arrest stems from a physical altercation on January 1, 2026, involving actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple.

Ashabi, who is the mother of one of the singer’s children, accused Portable of assault at his bar in Ogun State.

The dispute reportedly began over Ashabi’s marital status in the singer’s life. According to reports, Ashabi requested to be recognised as a wife, while Portable insisted that only his first wife, Bewaji, held that title.

The argument allegedly escalated into violence, with Ashabi claiming the musician slapped and beat her, seized her phones, and threatened her and her siblings with an axe.