17-year-old Yusuf Alabi, Demands N100 Million Over Unlawful Detention By NPF
By Simeon OSAJIE
17-year-old Quadri Yusuf Alabi, who was detained for nearly three months over a false armed robbery charge, is demanding N100 million in compensation from the Nigeria Police Force for his unlawful detention, alongside a public apology and the immediate removal of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Amukoko Division.
Alabi, who became popular during the 2023 presidential elections for standing in front of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s convoy, was discharged on Thursday by Magistrate A. O. Olorunfemi of the Apapa Magistrate Court after the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, advised that there was no evidence linking him to the alleged crime.
His lawyer, Inibehe Effiong described the teenager’s ordeal as a “diabolical frame-up” orchestrated by two local enforcers – “Lege” and “Baba Waris” – who allegedly handed him over to police out of jealousy over the goodwill and donations Alabi received after his viral moment.
Effiong demanded the removal and prosecution of the DPO, the Investigating Police Officer, Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and all officers involved in the case, warning that failure to meet the demands would lead to a full-scale legal action.
According to him, “We are demanding that the police pay N100 million in damages to Quadri for his illegal detention since January.
“In addition, we demand a public apology from the Nigerian police. We urge the Inspector General of Police and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to ensure these steps are taken without delay.”
He revealed that Alabi and his family are still under threat and may have to be relocated for their safety.
“Even this morning, before coming to court, the family was threatened again. This situation is completely unacceptable,” he added.
Effiong also vowed to push for the prosecution of all those who falsely reported the boy to the police, stating that details of the legal team’s next steps would be made public soon.
