A Magistrate Court in Apapa, Lagos, has discharged 17-year-old Alabi Quadri, who gained national attention during the 2023 general elections for standing in front of the convoy of Peter Obi, then the Labour Party presidential candidate.

Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi released Quadri following legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which concluded that the teenager had no case to answer.

Quadri’s moment of defiance, captured in a viral video, became a symbol of youthful courage and hope for many Nigerians during the tense political period.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, human rights lawyer and activist Inibehe Effiong revealed that Quadri’s legal troubles began shortly after his rise to prominence in 2023.

“After the video went viral and people began donating to support him, some area boys in his community began making demands,” Effiong said. “They insisted that part of the donations be handed over to them. The community’s baale even instructed Quadri’s mother to cook and share food—including a cow and rice—to pacify the youths.”

According to Effiong, the family’s refusal to comply led to continued harassment, including multiple arrests.

“This is the second time Quadri has been arrested since 2023,” Effiong said. “The court found there was no evidence linking him to armed robbery or any criminal activity. The magistrate has now ordered his release.”

He urged Nigerians to stand with young people like Quadri, who represent the resilience and aspirations of the country’s youth.