Police Claim Boy Who Stood In Front Of Peter Obi’s Convoy Was Arrested For Street Theft
The Lagos State Police Command has said 18-year-old Alabi Quadri was lawfully arrested and remanded for his alleged involvement in a violent street fight, dismissing claims of victimisation.
Alabi, who gained public attention in 2023 after boldly standing in front of Peter Obi’s campaign convoy, was recently freed after spending three months in custody.
OSUN DEFENDER reported that a Magistrate Court in Apapa ordered his release following legal advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, which found no evidence to support the armed robbery charge against him.
His lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, claimed Alabi was abducted in January 2025 by two local enforcers, identified as “Lege” and “Baba Waris,” who then handed him over to the police.
According to him, “Area Boys (thugs) and even the Baale (community leader) had been harassing the family since 2023, demanding a share of the donations made to Alabi after his photo with Peter Obi went viral.”
He added, “The Baale allegedly told Alabi’s mother to buy a cow, rice, and cook food to appease the youths.”
The teenager, through his lawyer, is now seeking a N100 million compensation, a public apology, and demanding the immediate removal of the Police Divisional Officer (DPO) who superintended over his illegal detention.
However, police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin explained that Alabi was arrested and charged to court for his involvement in a violent street fight in Amukoko, Lagos, on January 22, 2025.
Hundeyin said, “The Lagos State Police Command is aware of public concerns surrounding the case of Alabi Quadri, an 18-year-old who was remanded to correctional service following his involvement in violent attacks, public disturbance, causing extensive damage to public and private properties, and injuries to persons standing by in the Amukoko area of Lagos State earlier this year.
“On January 22, 2025 to be precise, a serious breach of public peace and extensive damage to public and private properties occurred in Amukoko when groups of youths engaged in violent confrontations that escalated into street fights for all, causing widespread violence, panic, and chaos.
“During the chaos, a number of innocent passersby were reported to have been robbed and injured.
“In response, police officers of the command immediately launched an investigation into the incident.
“More crucial information was provided by members of the community, some of whom witnessed the incident and recognised several individuals involved.
“Victims of the robbery also came forward to give statements and positively identified the perpetrators. Following a thorough and transparent investigation, Alabi Quadri and four others were arrested and charged to court in connection with the crime.
“The suspects were remanded by the court to a correctional facility pending the conclusion of legal proceedings in the matter.
“The Lagos State Police Command undoubtedly reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law to ensure justice in all matters and also ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
“All police actions taken in this case have been in the laid-down processes and in accordance with due process, procedures, and based on credible evidence gathered during the investigation.
“We urge the public to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course and be fully exhausted in the case.
“The command remains open to engaging with the general public, opinion groups, and community stakeholders to transparently clarify every concern and ensure justice is served fairly and transparently.
“It’s statutory procedure in the Criminal Justice System and codes that police actions terminate where matters are taken to court.
“Members of the general public in Lagos State are enjoined to stay calm and peaceful, and allow peace to reign to ensure justice for all.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
