The Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has explained why 18-year-old Alabi Quadri, who became famous for standing in front of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi’s convoy during the 2023 presidential election, was remanded in a correctional facility.

SaharaReporters had reported that Alabi was freed on Thursday after spending three months in custody by a Magistrate Court in Apapa following legal advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, which found no evidence to support the armed robbery charge against him.

According to his lawyer, human rights advocate Inibehe Effiong, Alabi was abducted in January 2025 by two individuals known as “Lege” and “Baba Waris” — members of a group of local enforcers or “Area Boys” in Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos.

The lawyer revealed that the duo, allegedly jealous of the attention and donations Alabi received after his viral moment in 2023, handed him over to officers at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters.

Effiong stated that the ‘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. 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 immediately removal of Police Divisional Officer (DPO) who superintended over is illegal detention.

However, the police in statement by the Command’s 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.

The fight according to Hundeyin, caused panic in the community, resulting in injuries, damage to public and private property, and robbery of innocent passersby.

He said the police launched an investigation, gathering evidence and statements from witnesses and victims, which led to Alabi’s arrest and arraignment.

He reiterated the commitment of the Lagos State Command to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice and safety for all residents. The command urged the public to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course.

According to statement, “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,” Hundeyin said.

Hundeyin stated, “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.”

The command said it remains committed to justice and safety for all residents, urging the public to remain calm and allow the courts to decide the case.

“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,” it added.

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