By Abiola Olawale
The Lagos State Police Command has finally addressed the controversial arrest of Alabi Quadri, a 17-year-old who gained nationwide attention during the 2023 presidential election for standing boldly in front of Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s convoy in Lagos State.
The incident, which sparked viral social media attention, has now taken a controversial turn, with police clarifying the reasons behind Quadri’s detention.
According to a statement by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Police Command, Quadri was arrested following a violent incident in the Amukoko area on January 22, 2025.
The police reported that groups of youths engaged in street fights, leading to widespread chaos, property damage, and public panic.
Hundeyin emphasized that the arrest was not politically motivated but stemmed from Quadri’s alleged involvement in the violent clashes.
The statement reads in part: “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, several 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.”
The command added: “All police actions taken in this case have been in the laid-down processes and by 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 a 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.
The New Diplomat reports that the arrest sparked controversy, with Quadri’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, alleging what he described as a “diabolical frame-up” orchestrated by local thugs.
Effiong claimed these individuals, allegedly envious of financial gifts Quadri received after his viral moment with Obi, abducted him near his home and falsely accused him of participating in a street fight.
The charges later escalated to armed robbery, leading to Quadri’s detention at the Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre since January 26, 2025.
Effiong further accused the police of misrepresenting Quadri’s age as 18 and unjustly charging him alongside four strangers.
Meanwhile, on April 17, 2025, Quadri was freed by the Apapa Magistrates’ Court following legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins.
The court ruling cleared Quadri of the armed robbery charges, marking the end of his nearly three-month detention.
