Quadri Yusuf Alabi, a 17-year-old whose image captured national attention during the 2023 general election as he stood in front of Peter Obi’s convoy, has opened up about his horrible experiences in prison.
Quadri’s legal troubles began when he was arrested by the police in January 2025.
Following his arrest, he was brought before the court and has since remained in custody.
His situation garnered public interest last week when a young woman took to social media, urging Nigerians to rally behind his cause and advocate for his release.
While law enforcement officials assert that Quadri was detained in connection with a violent street altercation in the Amukoko area of Lagos, Quadri maintains that he has been wrongfully accused and insists he is innocent.
In an interview with Channels TV this morning, Quadri recounted the events leading to his arrest.
Read also: Peter Obi urges Nigerian leaders to use public resources for public good at Abia Chrism Mass
According to him, he had been working as a motorboy for a driver, transporting fish across various locations, and had just completed his shift. After receiving his payment, he was on his way home when he was intercepted by several police officers near the entrance of his home.
They confronted him with accusations of involvement in a recent street fight, a claim he vehemently denies. Quadri revealed that he was the youngest person among those arrested that day, highlighting the sense of injustice he feels.
Quadri said that during his time in prison, Quadri has endured grueling conditions, including taking on the degrading task of cleaning toilets, which mainly consist of pit holes. He expressed a deep desire to pursue an education and emphasized the urgent need for support to help him achieve this goal.
In a show of solidarity, compassionate Nigerians have already raised over N10 million for Quadri, demonstrating a widespread commitment to advocating for his release and supporting his aspirations for a brighter future.