Controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has retracted his earlier claim of mental instability, affirming in court that he is mentally sound.
Appearing before Magistrate O.L Oke at the Magistrate Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday, the 31-year-old Zazoo crooner clarified his health status.
Earlier in the week, the Ogun State Police Command declared Portable wanted for allegedly assaulting three officials from the Ogun Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA). In response, the singer took to Instagram, claiming he was undergoing treatment for mental illness at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta.
“I fear the government. I am a federal government liability. I’m a madman; I have medications that I usually take. You can confirm from Aro Hospital. I have a card that certifies me as one of their patients,” he had said.
However, the police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, dismissed his claims, stating that Portable remained a wanted individual. “Everybody knows he is wanted. If he is in any facility, the police must be informed,” she asserted.
Barely 48 hours later, Portable turned himself in and was brought before the court. During proceedings, Magistrate Oke questioned him: “Are you alright? Are you sure you are mentally sound? If not, we have psychiatric homes we can send you to.”
In response, Portable firmly stated, “I am mentally alright.”
The singer pleaded not guilty to the five-count charge against him and was granted bail set at ₦2 million with a surety in like sum. The case was adjourned to March 5 for further hearing.
