In a recent social media post, Nigerian businesswoman Laura Ikeji Kanu sparked significant debate by stating that the wives of internet fraudsters, commonly known as ‘Yahoo boys,’ should be arrested alongside their husbands. She insists that if these women enjoy the benefits derived from their partners’ illicit activities, they should also share in the legal repercussions when their spouses are apprehended.
Laura Ikeji’s perspective brings to the forefront the broader issue of accountability in financial crimes. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been actively pursuing individuals involved in internet fraud. For instance, on 14 February 2025, the EFCC arrested 47 suspected ‘Yahoo Boys’ who were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, recovering items such as 14 exotic cars, multiple laptops and mobile phones.
Critics of Ikeji’s stance argue that not all spouses are aware of or participate in their partners’ illicit activities, and thus, a policy of arresting them could lead to unjust consequences. They emphasize the importance of distinguishing between willing accomplices and unknowing partners to ensure that justice is fairly administered.
Portable Arrested for Assault in Ogun state, Secured N2M Bail after Court drama
Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, was recently been embroiled in a legal battle following allegations of assault and obstruction of government officials in Ogun State.
On February 5, 2025, officials from the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) conducted an enforcement operation at Odogwu Bar, an establishment owned by Portable in the Sango Ota area of Ogun State. The operation aimed to address alleged violations related to unauthorized construction and insufficient airspace. During this exercise, Portable, accompanied by his associates, reportedly confronted the officials, leading to a physical altercation. The officials—Abidemi Onabanjo, Ramon Lateef, and Akinpelumi Oyero—sustained injuries but managed to escape and report the incident to the authorities.
In the immediate aftermath, nine of Portable’s associates were apprehended and arraigned before an Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court on February 6, 2025. The charges against them included felony, assault, obstruction, armed violence involving cutlasses and guns, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and intent to kill.
Portable, however, escaped immediate arrest, leading the Ogun State Police Command to declare him wanted on February 18, 2025. The singer subsequently surrendered himself to the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on February 19, 2025, and was transferred to the Ogun State Police Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta.
On February 20, 2025, Portable was arraigned at the Isabo Magistrate Court in Abeokuta. He faced a five-count charge, including conspiracy, assault, obstruction, possession of dangerous weapons, and conduct likely to cause public harm. The singer pleaded not guilty to all charges. His counsel, Oluwatoyin Ayodele, appealed for bail, assuring the court of Portable’s remorse and commitment to comply with legal proceedings. Magistrate O.L. Oke granted bail set at ₦2 million, with one surety in like sum, and adjourned the case to March 5, 2025, for trial.
The Ogun State Government has strongly condemned Portable’s alleged actions, labeling him a “serial dissident and unrepentant rascal.” This characterization reflects the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that public figures are held accountable for actions that undermine governmental authority and public order.
The incident has ignited widespread discourse on social media and in public forums, highlighting the responsibilities of celebrities as role models and the importance of adhering to legal and societal norms. While some supporters argue that Portable’s actions were a defense of his property and interests, critics contend that resorting to violence against government officials is indefensible and sets a dangerous precedent.
This case serves as a critical reminder of the necessity for individuals, regardless of their public stature, to engage with authorities through lawful and peaceful means.
