Toba Owojaiye
Apapa, Lagos State
On Thursday, April 17, 2025, a Lagos Magistrate Court sitting in Apapa, presided over by Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi, ordered the immediate release of Alabi Quadri, a teenager who became a viral sensation in 2023 after bravely standing in front of the convoy of Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
Truth Live News gathered that the court’s order came following advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which stated that there was no evidence to support the charges of armed robbery and conspiracy initially levelled against Quadri. He had been remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Centre for several months.
Quadri’s bold act during Peter Obi’s campaign tour in Lagos became emblematic of youthful courage and political hope. The image of him—barefoot and visibly awestruck—as he halted the convoy to wave at Obi, resonated deeply across social media. It was interpreted as a symbol of the connection between the political newcomer and Nigeria’s disenfranchised youth. Obi later acknowledged the moment, calling it “one of the most touching moments of our campaign trail.”
However, what followed was a disturbing descent into legal persecution.
According to human rights advocates, local political thugs—angered by the attention Quadri received and suspecting him of associating with the Labour Party—began to harass the teenager. Eventually, he was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit armed robbery, a move many observers described as excessive and suspicious.
Effiong, known for taking up civil rights cases, quickly mobilized a team to defend Quadri pro bono. “He was a symbol of hope for many,” Effiong stated. “What they tried to do was turn that hope into fear.” His team’s argument centred on the complete absence of evidence, the apparent political undertones, and the abuse of the justice system to stifle free expression.
The public response was swift and widespread. Social media campaigns under hashtags like #FreeAlabiQuadri and #JusticeForQuadri drew support from activists, celebrities, students, and diaspora Nigerians. Protesters also demonstrated outside Lagos courts on multiple occasions.
The DPP’s decision not to pursue prosecution was seen as a triumph for public pressure and due process. “The justice system prevailed, albeit after months of unnecessary suffering,” said Olumide Akintayo, a Lagos-based civic advocate. “But we cannot normalize this delay. The fact that a teenager spent months in prison over nothing should disturb all of us.”
Peter Obi’s media team issued a brief statement on Thursday evening welcoming the news. “We are relieved by the court’s decision and stand in solidarity with all young Nigerians who are unfairly targeted for simply daring to believe in a better country,” the statement read.
The case also casts a spotlight on the growing trend of state intimidation and criminalization of youth political participation. Several youth-led campaigns during the 2023 elections faced violence, harassment, and arbitrary arrests, especially those seen as aligned with opposition candidates.
“This ruling may free Alabi physically,” Effiong concluded, “but we must work toward freeing our institutions from the grasp of political manipulation. Today’s victory should renew our vigilance”.