Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, reportedly escaped re-arrest in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Tuesday following allegations of fraud linked to a failed performance at a major entertainment event.
Sources revealed that plans had been concluded to re-arrest Portable immediately after he was released from the Okekura Correctional Facility on Tuesday.
The arrest was in connection with his alleged refusal to perform at the Kwara Tampan Fiesta held at Starwood Hotel, Gaa Akanbi junction, Ilorin, on September 29, 2024, after being paid N6.3 million.
The failed performance reportedly caused significant losses for the event organizers, which included Starwood Hotels O2 Arena in partnership with the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).
Managing Director of Starwood Hotels, Mr. Yemi George, confirmed the development, stating that Fuji music legend Saheed Osupa intervened, appealing to him not to go ahead with the re-arrest out of respect.
“I have obtained every necessary document to re-arrest him today to refund my money, but out of respect for the legendary Fuji musician (Osupa) who prevailed on me not to,” George said.
According to a petition jointly signed by Chief Olu Amusan, Governor of TAMPAN, and Ayodele Demokun of Starwood Hotels, Portable entered into an agreement on July 22, 2024, to perform at the event. Despite being paid the full amount, he failed to show up on stage.
The petition alleges that Portable arrived over 16 hours late, and instead of performing, he sneaked out of his hotel without notifying organizers.
Describing his actions as fraudulent, the petitioners are demanding a full investigation, prosecution, and a refund of the N6.3 million allegedly collected under false pretence.
This incident adds to the string of controversies surrounding the musician, whose Monday remand at the Okekura facility was reportedly influenced by sympathizers of Fuji star Saheed Osupa.
The singer’s bail plans were said to have collapsed after his close associates allegedly pulled out of the arrangement.
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