Peter Obi Seeks Justice for 15-Year-Old Detained Supporter
Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-Governor of Anambra State, has stepped in to support 15-year-old Quadri Yusuf Alabi, who has been detained at Kirikiri prison for over three months without trial.
Alabi first gained national attention during the 2023 presidential campaign when he boldly stood in front of Obi’s convoy during a rally in Lagos, earning widespread admiration and support, including monetary gifts from Obi and socialite Cubana Chief Priest.
Despite his moment in the spotlight, Alabi’s fortunes turned when he was reportedly accused by local youths of fighting and theft, allegedly out of resentment towards his family for not “settling” them after he received public donations. He maintains his innocence, claiming the accusers are known to him and harbor a longstanding grudge.
Obi, posting on X (formerly Twitter) Tuesday night, expressed deep concern over Alabi’s prolonged detention:
“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, I sincerely appeal to the police and other agents of the government to always operate within the law and the rules and stop weaponizing citizens, especially our youths, who need our care and love to unleash their talents and energy towards building a new Nigeria that is possible,”
Obi confirmed that human rights lawyer Barrister Inibehe Effiong has taken up the case and is pushing for Alabi’s release. Effiong also confirmed the intervention, saying: efforts have been intensified in the last 24 hours to ensure that justice is done and that Quadri Yusuf Alabi regains his freedom soonest. History will vindicate the just.”
Alabi was formally charged and appeared in court on March 27. His next hearing is scheduled for April 28.
