Quadri Alabi, the 17-year-old who gained national attention during the 2023 presidential elections for bravely standing in front of Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s convoy, has finally regained his freedom after spending nearly three months at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos.
His release was ordered on Thursday by a Magistrate Court in Apapa following a legal review by the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which found no basis for the armed robbery charge filed against him.
Alabi’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, announced the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), describing the case as a “diabolical frame-up” allegedly orchestrated by local area thugs, identified as Lege and Baba Waris. According to Effiong, these individuals had abducted Alabi near his home and handed him over to the police under false claims of involvement in a street fight.
“Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year-old who spontaneously stood in front of Mr. Peter Obi’s convoy during the elections, has been freed today, 17th April 2025,” Effiong wrote.
Despite claims of a street altercation, Alabi was arraigned by police on January 26 for armed robbery, remanded alongside four unrelated adults, and his age falsely recorded as 18. His prolonged detention only came to light after it was highlighted by Hassana Nurudeen, co-founder of the Ray of Hope Prison Outreach.
In court, Magistrate A. O. Olorunfemi cited the DPP’s legal advice confirming that no evidence supported the charge. “The DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the Magistrate discharged him,” Effiong noted.
Effiong commended the DPP for upholding justice and transparency, but called for accountability, demanding disciplinary action against officers involved from the Amukoko Police Station. He also sought a public apology and N100 million compensation for Alabi.
“This case is a heartbreaking reflection of the rot, impunity, and injustice within the Nigeria Police Force,” Effiong added.
Alabi’s ordeal has sparked outrage and renewed calls for police reform and accountability across the country.
