Fuji icon, King (Dr.) Saheed Osupa, has officially directed the withdrawal of a legal action earlier instituted against street-hop artist, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, citing compassion and the intervention of well-meaning Nigerians.
The decision, according to a press statement signed by Osupa’s media aide, Busari Basit Babatunde (Fountain), on behalf of the singer’s management, followed “heartfelt pleas from several prominent Nigerians” and a deep reflection on Portable’s ongoing ordeal after his failure to meet bail conditions.
“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.”
“The intention was not personal, but to set a precedent that would discourage unruly behavior and promote responsibility, especially among younger artists,” the statement read.
The public figures who mediated in the matter include Alhaji Ahmad Lawal, CEO of Lahmad Concepts; Saheed Ibile, CEO of Harmony Holdings Ltd; Alhaji Fatai Lajero on behalf of Olufimo Royal Parliament; and Alhaji Waheed Ogunsesan, National President of the Olufimo Fans Club.
Moved by their interventions and the challenging circumstances Portable faced, Osupa reportedly gave a personal directive for the immediate withdrawal of the case. “While accountability is essential, mercy, too, is a pillar of leadership,” the statement noted. “Osupa hopes that Portable will seize this opportunity for reflection, growth, and transformation.”
However, the withdrawal is not unconditional. The statement outlined three expectations from Portable:
He must retract his statement alleging that Osupa should be held responsible if anything happens to him.
He must publicly confess that the claim by his lawyer, Chief Barrister Isaac Adebayo—alleging that Osupa held his leg begging for forgiveness—was false. “Contrary to this claim, Osupa did not even set his eyes on Portable,” the management asserted.
He must sign an undertaking to desist from cyberbullying, defamation, and character assassination going forward.
Failure to comply with these conditions, the management warned, could lead to a reinstatement of the case.
Reiterating his values, King Osupa emphasized that he remains committed to promoting a music industry anchored on “respect, discipline, and mutual growth.”
“We appreciate the support of our fans, Fuji lovers worldwide, and well-meaning Nigerians who understood our legal move to protect our image,” the statement concluded. “Your backing means a lot to us, and we’re grateful for your loyalty.”
