Quadri Alabi, the 17-year-old boy who went viral in 2023 for bravely standing in front of Peter Obi’s campaign convoy, is set for a new beginning after Nigerians raised over ₦10 million in just four days to support his relocation and safety.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong confirmed the donations during a live interview, explaining that the money will also help establish a sustainable source of income for Alabi’s mother, a petty trader. The donations followed growing public concern about the boy’s safety after he was falsely accused and detained by police earlier this year.
Alabi’s troubles began after his iconic moment with Obi made him a public figure. While it brought him recognition and support, it also attracted envy and extortion from local area boys in Amukoko, Lagos. According to Effiong, these individuals demanded he “settle” them with money, threatening his mother and eventually orchestrating his arrest.
In a flashback to January 2025, Alabi was arrested near his home by a group of local youths known as Leggy and Baba Waris. They handed him over to police, accusing him of being part of a violent street fight. He was kept in detention for a week before being arraigned in court alongside adult men he had never met. Despite a lack of evidence and no proper identification procedure, he was charged with armed robbery.
Effiong revealed that police officers involved had also falsely recorded Alabi’s age as 18 instead of 17 to justify trying him as an adult in court. The magistrate, bound by the documents provided, had no choice but to proceed. Eventually, legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions led to his release.
Alabi later shared that the police seized his phone and money and held him in a cell with older detainees. His story of mistreatment in custody, including cleaning toilets daily, stirred public sympathy and support.
Effiong emphasized that the fundraising effort shows the power of collective action and the determination of Nigerians to stand against injustice. Plans are underway to safely move Alabi and his mother away from Amukoko and give them a fresh start.
