Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, in the 2023 elections has demanded the release of a young Lagosian, Yusuf Alabi, 15, reportedly languishing at the Kirikiri Prisons for over three months without trial.
Alabi made national attention in 2023 when he was photographed standing hands spread before Obi’s convoy during a campaign rally in Lagos.
The photograph went viral.
After the public display in front of Obi’s convoy, reportedly received cash gifts from the former Anambra State Governor and socialite Cubana Chief Priest.
Enquiries with the boy’s family say he was charged with stealing after those envious of his popularity handed him over to the police.
However, Alabi and his parents maintain his innocence.
Demanding the boy’s release in his official X handle on Tuesday, Obi tweeted:
“After delivering my speech at the Commonwealth event in London today, 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, appeared in court for the first time in March, and still remains held in custody.
“I have contacted a lawyer, Barrister Inibehe Effiong @InibeheEffiong, who, luckily, has been actively working to intensify his release.
“I sincerely appeal to the police and other agents of the government to always operate within the law and the rules and stop the 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. -PO“
Police have yet to speak on the matter.
Alabi has been charged with fighting and stealing.
He made his first court appearance on March 27, with the next hearing scheduled for April 28.
Confirming Obi’s intervention, the lawyer Barrister Inibehe Effiong stated on Twitter:
“I confirm that you contacted me earlier today in respect of this case. I commend your interest in the case, Sir. Efforts have been intensified in the last 24 hours to ensure that justice is done and that Quadri Yusuf Alabi regains his freedom soonest. I will provide an update within the coming hours. History will vindicate the just.”
