Portable arrested over alleged defamation

Controversial Nigerian street-hop sensation, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arrested by the Kwara State Police Command over allegations of criminal defamation, threat to life, incitement, and character assassination.

The arrest, which occurred on Saturday, stems from a formal petition filed by renowned Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa. In the petition, Osupa accused Portable of making several defamatory and inciting statements against him on social media — comments he claims are not only damaging to his reputation but also capable of provoking public unrest.

Police sources confirmed that the “Zazoo Zeh” singer was apprehended following preliminary investigations into the matter.

In a statement released on Sunday, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the state police spokesperson, disclosed that the singer was taken to Ilorin for further investigation.

It added that Portable’s statement was recorded in the presence of legal representatives from both parties, and he is currently in custody awaiting court proceedings.

“The Kwara State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that following a petition received from one Mr. Okunola Saheed, popularly known as “Osupa,” against Mr. Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, also known in the entertainment industry as “Portable”,” the statement reads.

“Police detectives of Kwara Command have taken lawful steps in line with due process to investigate the allegations.
“The petition borders on serious allegations which includes criminal defamation, threat to life, incitement, character assassination, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and the use of abusive and insulting words.

‘’In view of the weight of these allegations and the supporting evidence presented, the command secured a valid arrest warrant from a Magistrate Court sitting in Ilorin.

“Acting on this warrant, operatives from the command proceeded to Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, 13th April 2025, where the suspect was apprehended at about 19:25hrs. He was immediately brought to Ilorin for further investigations.

“Upon his arrival, the suspect’s statement was taken in the presence of legal representatives from both parties.”

The rift between the two artistes began last month when Portable’s song was removed from Apple Music and Spotify due to copyright infringement.

Portable had used a line synonymous with Osupa’s style, leading to Osupa’s team filing a complaint.

The ‘Zazoo Zeh’ hitmaker initially called out Osupa, using derogatory terms like “big for nothing,” which sparked backlash on social media.

However, Portable apologised to Osupa, blaming his temper for the outburst.