By Kabiru Abdulrauf.
Months after his dramatic arrest, 17-year-old Alabi Quadri, the teenager who captured national attention by standing in front of Peter Obi’s convoy during the 2023 election campaignhas finally regained his freedom.
A Magistrate Court in Apapa, Lagos, discharged Quadri on Thursday following the legal advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which found no grounds for the charges against him.
Quadri’s bold stance before Obi’s campaign convoy had gone viral, becoming a symbol of youthful courage during a politically charged election season. But the fame came at a heavy price.
Speaking to journalists, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong revealed that Quadri became a target within his community after receiving public support and donations. “Area boys” reportedly demanded a share of the donations, with the local baale (community leader) even pressuring the family to throw a feast to appease the youths.
“They were witch-hunted because they refused,” Effiong said. “This is the second time Quadri has been arrested since that video went viral. There was never any evidence of wrongdoing—certainly not armed robbery.”
The court agreed. Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi declared Quadri had no case to answer, ordering his immediate release. “He is going to come home in the next few minutes once the magistrate has signed his release warrant,” Effiong confirmed.
Quadri’s story is a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by young Nigerians who dare to stand out. But with voices like Effiong’s in his corner, the teenager’s future may yet hold hope beyond headlines.
