Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has revealed that more than N10 million has been raised in just four days for 17-year-old Quadri Alabi, who was recently cleared of armed robbery charges. Effiong, speaking in an interview on Channels TV, alleged that the police had falsely claimed that Alabi was 18 years old to prosecute him, despite his true age of 17.
Alabi was arrested earlier this year after being accused of involvement in a street fight in the Amukoko area of Lagos. Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi later dismissed the charges following advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins, which determined there was insufficient evidence.
Effiong explained that the arrest was part of a larger, oppressive scheme, allegedly orchestrated by local "area boys" and supported by corrupt officers at the Amukoko Police Division. He detailed how these individuals had harassed Alabi after his viral moment during the 2023 presidential campaign, where he was photographed in front of Peter Obi’s convoy. Despite receiving donations and gaining some popularity, Alabi faced increasing threats and extortion from the local area boys, who demanded a feast and money from him and his family.
The situation escalated in January 2025 when Alabi was detained by police after being accused of being involved in a street fight. According to Effiong, the arrest was not only illegal but involved an outright fabrication of evidence, including the claim that Alabi was 18 years old. Effiong explained that the police fabricated the age to ensure the case was treated as an adult criminal matter, where Alabi could be remanded in prison. The magistrate had no choice but to rely on the information given by the police, which was inaccurate.
Alabi, recounting the incident, shared that he was simply outside his house when the area boys pointed him out, leading to his arrest. He described being locked up with older individuals, and his personal items, including his phone and money, were confiscated by the area boys.
Regarding the fundraising campaign, Effiong confirmed that over N10 million had been raised for Alabi in a matter of days. The funds will be used to relocate Alabi from the Amukoko area and provide financial support for his mother, a petty trader. This outpouring of support highlights the strength and resilience of the Nigerian spirit in the face of injustice.
Effiong condemned the harassment and mistreatment Alabi faced and vowed to continue seeking justice, asserting that this case underscores the deep-seated issues within the Nigerian police force and the need for accountability.
