Portable’s emotional prayer sparks alarm as Police probe alleged custodial assault

Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred widespread concern after posting an emotional prayer on social media amid mounting allegations of police brutality and domestic assault.

In an Instagram story shared late Sunday night, the visibly distressed singer pleaded with God to spare his life, expressing fear of dying young and leaving his family behind. In the short but emotional message, Portable wrote: “God save me; don’t let me die young because of my wife and my kids. God, don’t let them suffer.” The post quickly drew reactions from fans and the wider public, many of whom expressed anxiety over his safety.

The prayer came just hours after the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that it had launched an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing the musician being assaulted while in police custody.

The footage, which has circulated widely on social media platforms—especially X—shows Portable handcuffed, shirtless and visibly distressed, pleading tearfully while seated in what appears to be a police holding area.

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The video triggered public outrage and renewed debate about police conduct and human rights, with many Nigerians calling for accountability and an independent investigation. Reports accompanying the footage alleged that the Zazu crooner was assaulted by police officers at a detention facility in Ogun State.

Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that Portable is currently in police custody but stressed that the Command does not condone any form of assault on suspects.

“Yes, he was arrested and he is with us, but that is a different issue. What is important is the assault that was happening at the station. We don’t condone it,” Babaseyi said.

He further noted that the recording and public circulation of videos showing suspects violates established police procedures and could compromise investigations. According to him, suspects are entitled to dignity regardless of their identity or alleged offence.

“We don’t condone videoing suspects. We don’t even put suspects’ faces out. No matter who the suspect is, nobody should be treated in such a manner,” he added.

Portable’s arrest is linked to allegations of assault made by actress and skit maker Omobolarinde Akinyanju, popularly known as Ashabi Simple, who is one of the singer’s baby mamas and the mother of one of his children. The incident reportedly occurred on January 1, 2026, at Portable’s bar in Ogun State.

According to reports, Ashabi had visited the singer following his invitation when an argument broke out over her status in his life. She was said to have demanded recognition as a wife, a claim Portable allegedly rejected, insisting that only his legally married wife, Bewaji, holds that position.

The disagreement reportedly escalated into physical violence, with Ashabi accusing the singer of slapping and beating her, confiscating phones, and threatening her and her siblings with an axe.

As investigations continue into both the assault allegations against Portable and the claims of police brutality, rights advocates have urged the authorities to ensure due process, protect the rights of all parties involved, and make public the findings of their inquiries to restore confidence in law enforcement.