Controversial Nigerian street-pop artist Portable has announced plans to transform his recent legal troubles with Ogun State authorities into musical content, revealing a forthcoming EP titled “Ogo Wanted” that chronicles his police encounter.
The “Zazu” crooner, whose real name is Habeeb Okikiola, shared a teaser for the new project on Instagram just days after being arraigned in court on serious charges including conspiracy, assault, and attempted murder. His post defiantly proclaimed, “OGO wanted. Music money pass Yahoo. Zeh Nation many inspiration,” suggesting the artist views his legal situation as an opportunity for creative and financial gain rather than a setback.
Last week, Portable made headlines when Ogun State police declared him wanted for allegedly recruiting armed thugs in what authorities described as a conspiracy involving “serious assault, armed breach of public peace, and attempted murder.” The singer eventually surrendered himself to authorities at the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba before being transferred to Ogun State Police headquarters.
The legal saga escalated when Portable appeared before a magistrate court on Friday facing five-count charges. Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, the court granted him bail set at a substantial ₦20 million. Notably, the court specifically prohibited him from discussing the case or related matters on social media while adjourning proceedings until March 5 for the commencement of trial.
The artist’s announcement of an EP directly referencing his legal troubles has sparked speculation about whether the musical release might constitute a violation of the court’s restrictions. While the court explicitly banned him from speaking about the case on social media, some fans have pointed out that musical expression might exist in a legal gray area not covered by the court’s specific instructions.
One follower commented on Portable’s announcement, “Them say make you no talk online again. So na song you wan dey use talk now?” while another observed, “Na form this EP we go know everything wey sup. Na only make you no talk on social media dem ban, no be music.
The rapid turnaround from courtroom to recording studio has surprised even Portable’s devoted fanbase, with one commenter noting, “I expected this but not so soon.” Another described it as an “Emergency album,” highlighting the artist’s tendency to quickly capitalize on controversies surrounding his public persona.
This episode represents the latest chapter in Portable’s turbulent rise to fame, which has been characterized by continuous controversies balanced against undeniable musical popularity. Since breaking through with his hit single “Zazu Zeh” featuring Olamide in late 2021, Portable has maintained public attention through a combination of musical output and provocative behavior.
His approach appears to be working commercially, as evidenced by his boast that “Music money pass Yahoo” – suggesting his legitimate earnings through music exceed what internet fraudsters (colloquially known as “Yahoo boys” in Nigeria) make through illicit means.
The singer’s Zeh Nation record label has also become a recognizable brand, with Portable regularly using the phrase “many inspiration” as a catchphrase across his social media platforms. This consistent branding has helped him maintain a dedicated fanbase despite frequent legal issues and public controversies.
Following his court appearance and bail, Portable had initially struck a conciliatory tone, promising to avoid trouble going forward. I won’t be looking for trouble anymore,” he stated, emphasizing that his focus would be solely on “making money” while expressing gratitude to God for his situation.
However, the quick pivot to announcing the “Ogo Wanted” EP has led some observers to question the sincerity of that pledge. The title itself – combining “Ogo,” a Yoruba word often associated with glory or honor, with “Wanted,” referencing his recent fugitive status – suggests Portable remains committed to his controversial personal brand.
Music industry analysts note that Portable’s approach exemplifies a growing trend among certain Nigerian artists who deliberately court controversy as a marketing strategy. By immediately transforming his legal troubles into content, Portable demonstrates a savvy understanding of how to maintain relevance in Nigeria’s crowded music marketplace.
Fan reactions to the announcement have been predominantly supportive, with comments like “You no dey disappoint” and “Ogo forever” suggesting his core audience appreciates his resilience and ability to create opportunities from adversity. The comment “Na form this EP we go know everything wey sup” indicates fans are looking to the music for Portable’s unfiltered perspective on recent events.
Cultural commentators have noted how Portable’s situation highlights tensions between Nigeria’s judicial system and the country’s robust entertainment industry. The court’s specific prohibition against social media discussion represents an acknowledgment of Portable’s significant online influence, while his musical response potentially tests the boundaries of these restrictions.
While the full content of the “Ogo Wanted” EP remains to be seen, its very existence reinforces Portable’s reputation as an artist who refuses to separate his music from his lived experience. In the tradition of Nigeria’s socially conscious musicians, though with his own uniquely controversial approach, Portable continues to document his personal journey through his art.
As March 5 approaches with his scheduled court appearance, the release of “Ogo Wanted” adds another unpredictable element to an already complex legal situation. Whether the EP will complicate his legal defense or strengthen his public support remains to be seen, but one thing appears certain – Portable remains determined to control his own narrative, both in the courtroom and in the studio.
