Habeeb Okikiola, the controversial singer better known as Portable, has lamented the alleged vandalism of his property in Ifo, Ogun state.
In a recent post on Instagram, Portable claimed that officers from the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) stormed his Odogwu bar and restaurant, arresting over 20 people, including artistes and customers.
He alleged that the officers also seized vehicles, gadgets, and personal belongings.
Portable also claimed that another property belonging to him was sealed by the agency.
The ‘Zazoo Zeh’ hitmaker shared a letter from the OGPDPA, dated January 5, 2024, which stated that the property was constructed without an approved permit and lacked sufficient air space for users.
Portable appealed to the Ogun state government to investigate the matter, citing his contributions to the development of the town.
He claimed to have promoted events and shows at his venue, provided employment opportunities, and even facilitated road repairs in the area.
The singer also expressed his frustration and disappointment, arguing that he had done nothing to warrant the treatment he received.
“I believe in Eledumare Nobody can fall me Omo Olohun. They pack everybody..they took more than 20 people both artistes and customers and they pack Cars and bikes including people’s phones and JBL,” he wrote.
“All the people that came for help packed them and they sealed my new uncompleted building and hotel. In my home town we no follow them fight. Packed all the drinks that we are selling at ODOWGU bar and food. WHY? government should please look into this …I am using here to book events and shows not only drink.
“I am promoting people and helping people here. Make Government ask I put light for everywhere and before government come for road repair na me call them to help us..why will they do that at my property that I am using to feed my family… them later come attack me at where I dey but God pass them.”
Ogun state government reacts to Portable’s claims
Olatunji Odunlami, the commissioner for physical planning, has dismissed Portable’s claims of vandalism as “spurious and blatant falsehood”.
In a chat with TheCable Lifestyle on Thursday, the commissioner emphasized that such claims should be reported to the police station, rather than being made on social media.
Odunlami alleged that Portable assaulted a government officer serving him a notice.
He said the singer was absent when the officers arrived, but upon his return, he attacked one of them, forcing the others to flee for their lives.
He also revealed that Portable’s vehicle and brother were taken to the police station.
“The OGPDPA zonal planning offices of Ota and Ibogun in an ongoing joint monitoring and audit of developments around the area to check their planning permit status, went to serve notices,” he said.
“He ( Portable) and his area boys attacked the government officials. They had to run for dear lives. He personally slapped and assaulted officers and chased their vehicle with Okada.
“All escape routes were barricaded by his Okada boys and the officers had to take refuge in a petrol station. Report was made to the police who went to rescue the officials and made arrests.
“Portable himself went into hiding and he is yet to be arrested. His claim of vandalisation is spurious and blatant falsehood. Claim of vandalisation of property are not made on social media. He should go to the police station and report the matter if he is sure of his claim.”