Full Details of the Zazu Crooner’s January 2026 Prison Stint
The Nigerian entertainment scene has been set abuzz following the news that controversial street-pop sensation, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has finally been released on bail after spending a week in custody. The “Zazu” crooner, who is no stranger to legal run-ins, found himself at the center of a domestic and legal storm that culminated in his detention by the Ogun State Police Command in mid-January 2026. This latest development has sparked massive conversations across social media platforms, with fans and critics alike weighing in on the singer’s recurring brushes with the law.
The Genesis: Why Was Portable Arrested?
The singer’s most recent legal woes began following a petition filed by his baby mama, actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, better known as Ashabi Simple. According to reports, the incident occurred on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State. What was supposed to be a festive period turned chaotic when a heated argument erupted over Ashabi’s status in the singer’s life. While Ashabi reportedly insisted on being recognized as a wife, Portable maintained that only his first wife, Bewaji, held that title.
The disagreement escalated into allegations of physical violence. Ashabi Simple accused the singer of slapping and beating her, seizing her phones, and even threatening her and her siblings with an axe. Following these gravity-filled allegations, a formal complaint was lodged, leading to the singer’s arrest and subsequent remand.
A Week in Detention and Viral Controversy
Portable’s time in custody was marked by a significant controversy that drew the attention of human rights advocates. A viral video surfaced online showing the singer shirtless, in handcuffs, and tearfully pleading while allegedly being assaulted by police personnel in a holding facility. The footage sparked a national outcry regarding the treatment of detainees in Nigeria. In response, the Ogun State Police Command, through PPRO DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, condemned the act and ordered an internal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved, asserting that even high-profile suspects deserve humane treatment.
The Bail Hearing and Release
After approximately seven days in detention, Portable was arraigned before a Magistrate Court. The legal team representing the singer argued for his release on bail, citing his status as a public figure with a traceable address and his willingness to cooperate with the ongoing trial. The court, after considering the nature of the charges—which included assault and domestic violence—granted the singer bail under specific conditions.
On January 20, 2026, Portable successfully perfected his bail conditions and was released from the correctional facility. Sources close to the singer reveal that he was met by a small group of loyalists and family members upon his exit. Despite the gravity of the situation, the singer has remained vocal on his social media, maintaining his innocence and claiming he is a victim of “betrayal.”
Impact on the Music Industry and Public Image
This incident adds another chapter to Portable’s growing list of legal battles, including past charges of defamation and assault on government officials. While his “street-hop” persona thrives on controversy, industry experts suggest that the recurring nature of these arrests could impact his commercial brand and international visa prospects. However, for Portable’s core fanbase, his “unfiltered” lifestyle remains part of his appeal, often translated into hit songs shortly after his release.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Portable?
As Portable returns to his home and studio, the legal battle is far from over. He is expected to appear in court for the commencement of the trial regarding the assault allegations filed by Ashabi Simple. The outcome of this case will be a significant test of the singer’s ability to navigate his personal life and career without further legal interruptions. For now, the “Zazu” star is back on the streets, but under the watchful eye of the law.
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