Portable’s Mercedes: Unpaid Debt and Hidden Damage Revealed

In a recent exclusive interview with Punch Nigeria, Temitope Ogunsanwo, owner of Temmy Autos in Lagos, revealed the ongoing dispute between him and the controversial street singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable. The conflict centers on an unpaid balance of N14 million for a black Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, originally purchased for N27 million.

The Deal and Default

Ogunsanwo disclosed that Portable, introduced to him by a mutual friend, showed interest in acquiring the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 in early 2024. Initially, Portable requested to pay in instalments, a proposal Ogunsanwo was reluctant to accept but eventually agreed to, relying on the assurance of the friend.

The agreed payment schedule was as follows:

• N12 million upfront on January 10, 2024

• N5 million on January 24, 2024

• N5 million on February 10, 2024

• Final N5 million on February 24, 2024

Despite this, Portable failed to make the initial full payment on time. He started with small staggered payments ranging from N1 million to N3 million and ultimately paid only N13 million before ceasing payments altogether.

Attempts at Resolution and Legal Action

Repeated attempts by Ogunsanwo to contact Portable proved futile as the singer began avoiding calls or responding with verbal abuse. The car dealer also reached out to Portable’s family and legal representatives but saw no resolution.

Frustrated, Ogunsanwo reported the matter to the Zone 2 Police Command, where Portable was summoned but failed to appear. The matter was then escalated to the Commissioner of Police, resulting in Portable’s arrest three days prior to the interview.

Shocking Discovery: The Vehicle’s Damaged History

Adding a new layer of complexity to the dispute, Ogunsanwo conducted a comprehensive VIN check on Verifyithq.com, a trusted vehicle history platform popular in Nigeria and beyond. The report revealed that the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 had been badly damaged prior to being shipped to Nigeria.

Verifyithq.com provided a detailed history of the car, including photos and documented evidence of the extent of the damage. This finding raises concerns about transparency and highlights the potential risks of purchasing imported vehicles without proper background verification.

Here Is the History and Damaged Photos of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Portable Purchased

The full vehicle history report from Verifyithq.com includes:

• Detailed accident and damage records showing the vehicle was involved in a significant collision.

• Photos from the inspection illustrating visible damage to the body and structural components.

• Ownership and import records verifying the car’s journey and condition before arrival in Nigeria.

These comprehensive details clearly indicate that the vehicle was not in pristine condition when Portable took possession, which raises questions about disclosure and buyer awareness.

Why VIN Checks Matter

Ogunsanwo emphasizes the critical importance of conducting thorough VIN checks through reputable platforms such as Verifyithq.com before finalizing any car purchase, especially with imported vehicles. These checks provide vital information on:

• Accident and damage history

• Theft records

• Ownership and lien status

• Import/export legality

Failing to verify such information can expose buyers to financial loss, legal complications, and mechanical risks.

Impact on Business and Reputation

The entire ordeal has negatively impacted Ogunsanwo’s business operations and reputation. “Portable cannot deny the existence of our agreement. I have videos and voice notes of him pleading for the car, but I chose to keep them private,” Ogunsanwo said. “This situation is not just about money; it’s about trust and professionalism.”

Final Thoughts

This case serves as a cautionary tale for buyers and sellers in Nigeria’s bustling auto import market. It underscores the need for clear agreements, transparent communication, and above all, thorough due diligence through tools like Verifyithq.com to avoid costly disputes.

Whether you’re an individual buyer or a dealer, protecting yourself with a comprehensive VIN check could mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a legal battle.

About Verifyithq.com:
Verifyithq.com is a trusted online platform that provides comprehensive vehicle history reports, including accident records, ownership details, and photos. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone looking to buy used or imported vehicles, ensuring informed and secure purchasing decisions.