Controversial singer is reportedly at large as the Ogun State Police on Thursday arraigned nine of his proteges before a Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Abeokuta
The defendants were charged with allegedly assaulting officers of the Ota Zonal Planning Office under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
The nine suspects include Nurudeen Warris, 21; Adetola Alashe, 25; Samuel Adeleke, 28; Oluwaseun Ayenuwa, 19; Oluwapelumi Adeosun, 20; Gospel Kanu, 20; Precious Ohiegebo, 19; Ifeoluwa Babatunde, 27; and Fatimo Muhammed, 26.
They were arraigned on a five-count charge bordering on felony, assault, unlawful restriction, possession of dangerous weapons such as cutlasses and guns, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and intent to kill.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Police Prosecutor, Sunday Ekong, told the court that the offences were committed on Wednesday around 10:00 am at Oke-Osa in Tigbo Ilu, Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
Ekong stated that the defendants, along with Portable—who remains at large—unlawfully assaulted, restricted, and obstructed three town planners: Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero.
He alleged that the assault took place at Odogwu Bar, a property owned by Portable. According to him, the defendants and the singer were armed with dangerous weapons and acted in a manner that could breach public peace and threaten the lives of the town planning officers.
The prosecutor noted that the charges contravened Sections 516, 356(3), 80, 249(d), and 320 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Laws of 2006.
Magistrate O.M. Somefun granted the defendants bail, setting the amount at N5 million each, with sureties who must be licensed bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Government. The case was adjourned until March 17 for hearing.
According to Daily Trust, Portable had recently expressed frustration after the Ogun State Government sealed his uncompleted building and hotel.
In a letter posted on social media, the government cited illegal development without an approval permit as the reason for the action. Portable claimed the raid led to the arrest of over 20 people, including artistes, customers, and individuals who had come to seek his help.
The singer further alleged that authorities confiscated cars, bikes, and phones. He argued that his building was being used for hosting events and shows, not just for selling drinks.
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