By Mercy Okpe, Lagos.
Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, has declared himself a “madman” undergoing treatment at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, following accusations of assaulting government officials. The declaration comes after the Ogun State Police Command declared the artist wanted in connection with the alleged attack.
The incident reportedly occurred in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, Ogun State, where officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development were conducting an enforcement exercise. The officials allege that after interacting with Portable’s father regarding a building plan, the singer arrived with a group of men and assaulted them with weapons. Police have confirmed that nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, while Portable remains at large.
In response to the allegations and the wanted notice, Portable took to social media to plead his case. He claimed he is a “federal government liability” and receives treatment at Aro Hospital, possessing a card that certifies him as a patient. He also suggested that the incident was a setup due to his wearing a vest featuring Senator Adeola Solomon (Yayi). Portable appealed to Nigerians and the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for intervention.
The conflicting accounts from both sides paint a complex picture. While the government officials claim to have been unarmed and violently assaulted, Portable’s claims of mental health treatment and a potential setup suggest a different narrative. The police investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge.
I am a “madman” undergoing treatment at Psychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta -Portable Replies Police.
