Alabi Quadri, Teen Who Went Viral for Blocking Peter Obi’s Convoy, Acquitted of Armed Robbery Charges

Alabi Quadri, Teen Who Went Viral for Blocking Peter Obi’s Convoy, Acquitted of Armed Robbery Charges


After spending months in detention over controversial armed robbery allegations, Alabi Quadri, the teenager who captured national attention in 2023 for boldly standing in front of Peter Obi’s convoy, has been discharged and acquitted by a Lagos court.

The verdict was delivered on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Apapa Magistrate Court located at Orege, Ajegunle — specifically at Sikiru Adagun Courthouse, Court No. 9 — and presided over by Magistrate A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.).

Quadri, who is still under 18, had been in custody since January after he was accused of armed robbery by the police — a charge his legal team described as baseless and politically tinged.

His lawyer, Barrister Inibehe Effiong, consistently argued that Quadri was a victim of a broken justice system, wrongfully targeted because of his past viral moment and subsequent public attention. Prominent human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, was also present in court to show solidarity and support.

According to court proceedings monitored by Lagos Reporters, Magistrate Olorunfemi ruled that the prosecution failed to produce credible evidence linking the teenager to the alleged crime.

“There was no material connection between the defendant and the alleged armed robbery incident. The burden of proof was not met,” the magistrate stated before striking out the case.

The case drew public outrage earlier this year after it emerged that Quadri had been reportedly abducted by hoodlums, allegedly upset over not receiving a share of the gifts and donations he received following his rise to online fame in 2023. It was shortly after this incident that he found himself entangled in the legal system.

His acquittal marks the end of a harrowing legal ordeal and raises fresh questions about how vulnerable youth — especially those thrust into the spotlight — are treated by the justice system.

Reacting outside the courtroom, Effiong described the ruling as a “small but significant victory” for human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.

“This is not just about Alabi. It’s about the countless others who do not have cameras or lawyers, who are locked up in cells with no one to fight for them,” he said.

As of press time, Quadri and his family have yet to make an official statement. However, supporters gathered outside the courthouse, cheering the outcome as a win for justice and a new beginning for the young man once again thrust into the national spotlight.

Lagos Reporters will continue to follow up on this case and other stories at the intersection of justice and youth advocacy in Nigeria.