Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reacted to the arrest and detention of Quadri Yusuf Alabi, a 15-year-old who went viral for supporting him during the 2023 presidential election.
The former Anambra made a passionate appeal for the release of Quadri Yusuf Alabi, a 15-year-old boy who has been detained at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for over three months without trial.
It could be recalled that Alabi became popular during the 2023 election campaign when he was photographed standing resolutely in front of Obi’s campaign convoy in Lagos. That moment went viral across social media platforms, earning admiration and emotional responses from many Nigerians who saw it as a visual representation of young people’s aspirations for a better Nigeria.
However, nearly two years later, the boy is now at the centre of a troubling legal situation that has prompted Obi to speak out publicly.
Taking to his official X handle on Tuesday, April 9, 2025, Obi expressed concern and called for justice, citing the need for adherence to the rule of law and the protection of young citizens from abuse and unjust treatment.
“I was made aware of the predicament of a young boy named Quadri Yusuf Alabi, who has been detained for over three months without trial, appeared in court for the first time in March, and still remains held in custody. I have contacted a lawyer, Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who, luckily, has been actively working to intensify his release,” he said
Added that “I sincerely appeal to the police and other agents of the government to always operate within the law and the rules and stop weaponizing citizens, especially our youths, who need our care and love to unleash their talents and energy towards building a new Nigeria that is possible.”
According to reports, local youths handed Alabi over to the police, accusing him of being a notorious fighter and thief. However, Alabi has denied all the allegations, stating that he knew the individuals who reported him and believed they held a personal grudge against his family.
The source of the conflict allegedly stems from the fact that his family did not provide financial “settlement” to the youths after Alabi received cash donations from both Peter Obi and the socialite Cubana Chief Priest following his viral moment. The boy now faces charges of fighting and stealing.
Meanwhile, Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who is representing Alabi, confirmed Obi’s intervention and stated that legal steps were already underway to secure the boy’s release.
“I confirm that you contacted me earlier today in respect of this case. I commend your interest in the case, Sir. Efforts have been intensified in the last 24 hours to ensure that justice is done and that Quadri Yusuf Alabi regains his freedom soonest. I will provide an update within the coming hours. History will vindicate the just,” Effiong posted on X.
