Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has been remanded over defamation charges following a court hearing in Ilorin, Kwara State. This development stems from allegations made by Fuji music legend Saheed Osupa, accusing Portable of character defamation and incitement.
The Upper Area Court in Ilorin ordered that the singer be remanded at the Oke Kura Correctional Centre due to his failure to meet stringent bail conditions.
Why Was Portable Remanded Over Defamation?
The incident began when Saheed Osupa filed a petition to the Kwara State Police Command on March 21, 2025. He alleged that Portable, during an Instagram live video, made defamatory statements that were intended to destroy his image and incite public resentment.
In the video, Portable accused Osupa of sabotaging his music career, stating:
“This man dey try bring down my shine! He be like person wey dey chop snail with shell—him no get sense. Osupa carry tortoise for stomach. When Apple Music and Spotify want to drop money for me, na him remove my song from the platform, make I no see money.”
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions.
On Monday, Portable was arraigned on multiple charges, including:
- Criminal defamation
- Incitement
- Cyberbullying
- Intimidation
- Use of offensive language
- Conduct likely to cause breach of peace
Despite being granted bail in the sum of ₦1 million, the conditions were tough. The court ordered him to provide:
- Two sureties in like sum
- One surety must be the Chairman or Secretary of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN)
- The second must own property within a Government Reserved Area (GRA) in Ilorin, with a valid Certificate of Occupancy
Due to his inability to meet these bail conditions, he remains in custody.
How Portable Was Arrested.
According to a statement by the Kwara State Police Command spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, a valid arrest warrant was issued by a Magistrate Court in Ilorin. Acting on the warrant, operatives from the State Intelligence Department located and arrested Portable in Abeokuta, Ogun State, at 7:25 PM on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
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The singer was then transported to Ilorin, where he gave a statement in the presence of legal representatives from both sides. The Investigating Police Officer, ASP Adeniyi James, confirmed the charges were based on orders from higher police authorities after reviewing the petition and video evidence.
Legal Implications and Industry Reaction.
Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for the way Nigerian celebrities engage on social media. The music industry, particularly PMAN, is also watching the case closely, as it touches on professional conduct, freedom of speech, and online responsibility.
As of now, Portable remains in detention while efforts are ongoing to meet the court’s bail requirements.
