In 2023, Alabi Quadri, a young teenager from Lagos, captured the hearts of many Nigerians when he boldly stood in front of Peter Obi's convoy during a presidential campaign rally. This act of courage and hope resonated deeply, symbolizing the aspirations of a generation seeking change. However, this moment of fame soon turned into a nightmare for Alabi.
After receiving gifts from well-wishers, Alabi faced envy and resentment from local youths in his neighborhood, who demanded a share of the money. When he refused, they began to threaten him. In January 2025, these threats materialized when Alabi was abducted by the same group of youths while returning from work. They took him to the Amukoko Police Station, accusing him of being a notorious fighter and thief.
The police, without thorough investigation, charged Alabi with armed robbery alongside four strangers he had never met. The alleged crime involved stealing cash and four mobile phones valued at N579,000. Despite his protests of innocence, Alabi was remanded at the Kirikiri Minimum Security Custodial Centre, a facility not designed for minors.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has taken up Alabi's case, expressing deep concern over the boy's prolonged detention without trial. Effiong visited Alabi at Kirikiri and confirmed that he has been held since January, despite being a minor. The lawyer believes Alabi is innocent and a victim of a flawed justice system and local vendettas.
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Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate, has also intervened, calling for justice and urging authorities to uphold the rule of law. Obi emphasized the need to protect young Nigerians like Alabi, who embody hope and potential for a better future.
Alabi's story highlights the challenges faced by many young Nigerians, who often find themselves caught between poverty, crime, and a justice system that frequently fails them. His case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for reform and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and wrongful detention.
As Alabi awaits his next court hearing, scheduled for April 28, his family and supporters continue to advocate for his release. The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice, underscoring the urgency of addressing systemic issues within Nigeria's criminal justice system to prevent similar injustices in the future.