Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa, has terminated his case against controversial artiste, Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable.
Recall that the Kwara State Police Command on Sunday night arrested Portable based on a petition instituted against him by Osupa, accusing him of criminal defamation, criminal intimidation, inciting public disturbance and cyberstalking.
The musician had alleged that Portable, during a live Instagram broadcast on March 19, made defamatory remarks against him, accusing him of jealousy and attempts to sabotage his career.
The alleged offence was deemed contrary and punishable under Section 392 (Criminal Defamation), Section 114 (Inciting Disturbance), Section 397 (Criminal Intimidation) of the Penal Code and Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes Act, 2015, as well as Sections 10 and 13 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2020.
Thereafter, Portable was arraigned in court and subsequently moved to the Oke-Kura custodial centre after failing to meet his bail conditions.
Osupa’s solicitor, Ahmed Opalekunde on Tuesday, then filed a suit to withdraw the case at the Upper Area Court 1, High Court, Ilorin, stating that his client was resorting to settling the case out of court.
Meanwhile, in a statement issued by Osupa’s media aide, Busari Basit Babatunde on Tuesday, the fuji musician said the decision to withdraw the case followed several appeals from notable Nigerians.
“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”. the statement added.
