Veteran fuji musician, Okunola Saheed, better known as King Saheed Osupa, has withdrawn legal cases against controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikilola Badmus, popularly known as Portable
Recall Portable was arrested by operatives of the Kwara State Police Command and remanded in prison over defamation allegations brought against him by Saheed Osupa.
The arrest followed a petition filed by Osupa, which prompted police action and culminated in the issuance of a warrant by a Magistrate Court sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State, and consequently remanding Portable in Prison for failing to meet bail conditions.
The withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday by Busari Basit Babatunde (Fountain), the Media Aide to King Saheed Osupa. The statement reads;
“The management of King (Dr.) Saheed Osupa wishes to inform the general public that the legal action previously instituted against Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been formally withdrawn on the instruction of Osupa himself.
“It is essential to clarify that the legal proceedings were initially initiated by Osupa’s management team in response to what was considered a grave violation of intellectual property rights and an unacceptable pattern of defamation and public misconduct. Hence, the intention was not personal, but to set a precedent that would discourage unruly behavior and promote responsibility, especially among younger artists.
“However, following heartfelt pleas from several prominent Nigerians—amongst whom are Alhaji Ahmad Lawal, CEO of Lahmad Concepts, and Saheed Ibile, CEO of Harmony Holdings Ltd, Alh. Fatai Lajero on behalf of Olufimo Royal Parliament, and Alh. Waheed Ogunsesan, National President Olufimo Fans Club.— and moved by Portable’s plight, following his inability to meet his bail conditions, Osupa gave a personal directive for the immediate withdrawal of the case.
“Please note that this decision is driven by compassion and the hope that this moment will serve as a turning point in Portable’s life and career, as Osupa believes that while accountability is essential, mercy, too, is a pillar of leadership. He hopes that Portable will seize this opportunity for reflection, growth, and transformation.
“As a condition of this withdrawal, Portable is expected to:
– Retract his statement implying Saheed Osupa should be held responsible if anything happens to him
– Confess to the falsehood of the public claim of his lawyer, Chief Bar. Isaac Adebayo, about holding Saheed Osupa’s leg begging for forgiveness, because contrary to this claim, Osupa did not even set his eyes on Portable
– Sign an undertaking to desist from cyberbullying, defamation, and character assassination henceforth.
If these conditions are not met, the case may be reinstated.
“Osupa remains committed to supporting a music industry built on respect, discipline, and mutual growth. He continues to use his platform to guide and uplift the next generation of creatives.
“Finally, we appreciate the support of our fans, Fuji lovers worldwide, and well-meaning Nigerians who understood our legal move to protecting our image. Your backing means a lot to us, and we’re grateful for your loyalty”.