The trial of popular singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has been postponed by an Abeokuta Magistrate’s Court until March 26. The adjournment allows the prosecution to merge his charges with those of his employees. During the court session on Wednesday, the prosecution argued that hearing Portable’s case separately from his workers would be inefficient and time-consuming.
Senior State Counsel, Mr. Timileyin Oredein, informed the court that Portable’s case is closely linked to another ongoing case and should be consolidated before the trial proceeds. He also pointed out that on February 6, the musician and nine of his employees were charged with similar offenses. According to Oredein, conducting separate trials for the defendants would unnecessarily prolong the legal process.
He therefore urged the court to set an early date for merging and amending the charges. Portable and his employees are facing five charges, including conspiracy, assault, and illegal obstruction while armed with cutlasses and a gun. They are also accused of engaging in actions that could lead to a breach of the peace.
Additionally, they are charged with allegedly assaulting three officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. In his previous court appearance, Portable pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at N2 million. One of the conditions of his bail is that he must refrain from discussing the case or anything related to it on social media.
