Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has been granted bail by an Upper Area Court in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The bail, set at ₦1 million, came after his arraignment on several serious charges, including criminal defamation, intimidation, inciting public disturbance, and cyberstalking.
Strict bail conditions set by court
The court attached clear conditions to the bail. Portable must provide two sureties. One must be either the Chairman or Secretary of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). The second must be a landowner in a Government Reserved Area (GRA) and show proof with a valid Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
Until these conditions are met, the singer remains in custody.
Case origin: Feud with fellow artist
The case stems from a complaint filed by fellow musician Okunola Saheed Osupa, popularly known as Osupa. The petition was submitted to the police on March 21, 2025, following a live Instagram broadcast by Portable on March 19.
Allegations from viral instagram video
In the broadcast, Portable reportedly launched an attack on Osupa’s character. He accused Osupa of being jealous of his success and attempting to harm his career. He alleged that Osupa caused his songs to be taken down from major streaming platforms right before he was due to be paid.
The singer was quoted saying:
“This man dey try bring down my shine! He be like person wey dey chop snail with shell—him no get sense. Osupa na tortoise. When Apple Music and Spotify wan drop money for me, na him remove my song from platform make I no see money.”
The statement quickly gained attention online, sparking debate and backlash.
Complainant claims malicious intent
According to Osupa, the statements were false, defamatory, and designed to provoke public outrage. He maintained that the video was posted with the intention to damage his name and reputation. He also alleged that it could incite fans and trigger public unrest.
Police interrogation and charges
Following the petition, Portable was invited to the State Intelligence Department (SID) in Ilorin, where he was interrogated. According to the police, he confessed to making the statements.
He now faces multiple charges under both the Penal Code and Cybercrimes Act. These include:
- Section 392: Criminal Defamation
- Section 114: Inciting Public Disturbance
- Section 397: Criminal Intimidation
- Section 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015
- Sections 10 and 13 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2020
Police confirm legal directive
The Investigating Police Officer, ASP Adeniyi James, confirmed that Portable was charged following instructions from higher authorities. The police reviewed the Instagram video and said it matched the details given in the complaint.
Singer remains in custody
Portable, who is from Oke-Osa in Sango-Ota, Ogun State, is expected to meet the court’s bail conditions before he can be released. So far, he has not fulfilled them.
The court has adjourned the case to a future date, which was not made public. The judge urged all involved to maintain peace and respect the law as proceedings continue.
Ongoing controversy
This incident adds to Portable’s growing list of controversies. Known for his bold personality and street-style music, he often draws attention both on and off social media. With serious legal challenges now ahead, fans and observers are closely watching what comes next.
Read Also: Police arrest Portable over alleged defamation, threat to life
