The Lagos State Police Command has explained the circumstances behind the detention of Alabi Quadri, the teenager who gained attention during the 2023 presidential election for standing in front of Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s convoy.
In a statement posted on Saturday via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said Quadri was arrested in connection with a violent street fight in Amukoko, Lagos, that occurred on January 22, 2025.
According to the police, groups of youths clashed violently, causing widespread panic, injuring several people, and damaging both public and private property. Some bystanders were reportedly robbed during the chaos.
“The Lagos State Police Command is aware of public concerns surrounding the case of Alabi Quadri… following his involvement in violent attacks, public disturbance, and damage to property,” Hundeyin stated.
He said the police acted swiftly and, with the help of eyewitnesses and victims who identified some of the suspects, arrested Quadri and four others, who were then charged in court. The court ordered their remand in a correctional facility pending trial.
Hundeyin emphasized that all police actions were in accordance with due process, urging the public to allow the judicial system to run its course.
“We urge the public to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course,” he said, reaffirming the command’s commitment to justice and transparency.
However, Quadri’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, said his client was the victim of a “diabolical frame-up” by two local thugs—Lege and Baba Waris—who allegedly kidnapped Quadri near his home and handed him over to the police, falsely accusing him of taking part in the fight.
Effiong also alleged that he had faced threats from the same individuals since 2023 after Quadri received donations from Peter Obi’s supporters.
Though the police initially described the incident as a street fight, Quadri was charged with armed robbery on January 26—a charge later dropped after the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) found no evidence to support it.
On Thursday, a Magistrate Court in Apapa ordered Quadri’s release, clearing him of all charges. His lawyer further noted that Quadri’s age had been wrongly recorded as 18, and that he was detained with four adults he didn’t know. The family was even pressured by local leaders to buy a cow and host a feast to make peace in the community.
