Nigerian musician Habeeb Okikiola, also known as Portable, has regained his freedom from the custody of the Lagos State Police Command.
On Tuesday, May 14, Portable was taken into custody by force because of his suspected failure to pay for his G-Wagon, a high-end vehicle. The Lagos-based vehicle dealer Ogunsanwo Temitope (Temmy Autos) sold the ‘Zazzu’ crooner a Mercedes Benz GLE 350, but the payment was not completed.
It was gathered that Portable had paid only N13 million after purchasing the vehicle, which was worth N27 million. He was said to have refused to pay the N14 million balance.
The musician tried to flee after being confronted by the police by jumping a gate, but the officers eventually caught him. Spokesman for the Lagos State Police Command Benjamin Hundeyin stated on Wednesday afternoon, May 15, that the singer would remain in custody until he can provide a trustworthy surety, at which point he will be eligible for release on bond.
Hundeyin said:
“He has presented no reliable surety yet so he (Portable) is still with us.”
On Wednesday evening, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benajmin Hundeyin, confirmed the release of the singer to Vanguard.
When asked if Portable had sorted out the issues, the spokesman added, “I have no idea about it but what I can say is that he has been granted bail.”
After Bobrisky was sentenced to prison in mid-April, Portable pleaded for forgiveness over films that showed him spraying money in various settings, especially on his supporters. The head of the Zeh Nation label swore not to splatter money in public in a viral video, appearing to be afraid of the consequences. Additionally, Portable Zazu advised his followers and admirers to register bank accounts because going forward, he would only be handling transfers.
The Portable incident also highlights more general problems with Nigeria’s entertainment sector, mainly with regard to money exchanges and legal conflicts. The case emphasizes the value of explicit contractual provisions as well as the possible repercussions of breaking them. It also emphasizes the importance of law enforcement in settling these conflicts, a procedure that is occasionally viewed as being overbearing or unfairly singled out for criticism because of their high-profile status.
The public’s response to Portable’s detention and subsequent release provides important insight into the dynamics between Nigerian superstars and their followers. Artists who are regarded as genuine and approachable get a great deal of devotion and support. Many people have come to love Portable because of his open and frequently controversial personality, and their support during his legal issues is evidence of his ability to connect with his audience.
With his release from police prison, Portable closes a difficult chapter in his life and embarks on new challenges and chances. Sustaining the momentum of his career and public support will depend greatly on his ability to handle the fallout from this occurrence. The episode serves as a reminder of the challenges that entertainers confront in the business, especially when it comes to handling debt and legal issues.
Portable’s experiences over the last week will surely have an impact on his music and public image going forward. Both supporters and onlookers will be keenly observing to see how he shapes his future pursuits in light of this experience. For the time being, Portable’s release is a win for his supporters and evidence of the strength of community and resiliency in the face of difficulty.