Peter Obi demands the release of Quadri Alabi as he condemns the arrest and detention of the 15-year-old boy. Noted that Alabi went viral for supporting Obi, a former Anambra State Governor, during the 2023 presidential election.
The Labour Party presidential candidate during the 2023 election made a passionate appeal for the release of the young boy. This comes after it was reported that he has been detained at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for over three months without trial.
During the 2023 election campaign, Alabi 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. The masses, particularly, the obidents 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. He cited the need to adhere to the rule of law and protect young citizens from 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,” Obi said. He added that Alabi “appeared in court for the first time in March and remains held in custody.”
Speaking further, He said: “I have contacted a lawyer, Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who, luckily, has been actively working to intensify his release.”
He continued: “I sincerely appeal to the police and other agents of the government to always operate within the law and the rules and stop weaponising 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, Alabi landed in prison after local youths handed him over to the police. They allegedly accused him of being a notorious fighter and thief. However, Alabi has denied all the allegations. He claimed 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 a financial “settlement” to the youths. The youths wanted their share of from money Alabi received from both Peter Obi and the socialite Cubana Chief Priest. The boy now faces charges of fighting and stealing.
Meanwhile, Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who is representing Alabi, confirmed Obi’s intervention. He 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, he said.
He further stated that everything will be done to ensure 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.
