LAGOS — Alabi Quadri, the teenage supporter of Peter Obi who went viral during the 2023 presidential election, has finally regained his freedom after spending several months in Kirikiri Prison.
A Lagos Magistrate Court sitting in Apapa on Thursday ordered Quadri’s release, ruling that he had no case to answer regarding the charges of conspiracy to commit felony and armed robbery.
Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi based the ruling on legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which stated there was no evidence to substantiate the allegations against the teenager.
Quadri’s image captured national attention in 2023 after he was photographed courageously standing in front of the convoy of then-Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi — a moment that quickly went viral and turned him into a symbol of youth bravery.
His unexpected imprisonment sparked public outrage and renewed criticism of the Nigerian justice system, especially when it emerged that his incarceration stemmed from personal vendettas within his community.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who has been advocating for Quadri’s release, confirmed that the case—originally scheduled for April 28, 2025—was brought forward following a joint request from both himself and the DPP. The court approved the request, leading to Thursday’s ruling.
“The truth is that Alabi committed no armed robbery. His ordeal was instigated by some area boys in his neighborhood who have held a grudge against him since the 2023 elections,” Effiong said.
With this development, Quadri is expected to reunite with his family and resume his life, while rights activists continue to demand reforms to prevent similar abuses of the justice system.
