Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has criticized the prolonged detention of Alabi Quadri, a young boy held at the Kirikiri Minimum Security Custodial Centre in Lagos since January, describing the case as another example of Nigeria’s failing criminal justice system. Effiong, in a preliminary statement shared on Wednesday via X, stated that he visited the Magistrate Court of Lagos in the Apapa Magisterial District on April 9, 2025, to inquire into the details surrounding Quadri’s arrest and subsequent detention. Effiong was accompanied by members of his law firm, Quadri’s mother and other relatives, and a social activist who initially brought the case to the public’s attention.
Effiong confirmed that Quadri has been in detention for several months. According to the lawyer, the young boy was abducted by local “area boys” near his home while returning from work. Effiong explained that both Quadri and his mother believed the ordeal stemmed from a long-standing resentment by local youths, who felt entitled to a share of a monetary gift Quadri received after an encounter with Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.
“The unfortunate series of events that led to Alabi’s imprisonment can be traced to the deep-seated malice harbored by some self-proclaimed area boys in his neighborhood, who felt they were entitled to a portion of the unexpected fortune Alabi came into when he stood in front of Mr. Peter Obi’s convoy during the last election campaign,” Effiong remarked. The lawyer further stated that the area boys, angered by not receiving a share of the gift, abducted Quadri and brought him to the Amukoko Police Station (Pako Police Station), accusing him of being involved in street fights.
The situation took a darker turn when the police charged Quadri, along with four others, with armed robbery. Effiong vowed to explore all available legal options to secure Quadri’s release. “We will provide further details and clarify the legal steps we plan to take in due course. Rest assured, we will use all lawful means at our disposal to ensure that Alabi is freed,” Effiong stated.
This case continues to highlight concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s criminal justice system, particularly with regard to the treatment of minors and the handling of cases where law enforcement appears to be influenced by local grievances or external pressures. Effiong’s call for justice in this case underscores the broader challenges within the system, as he seeks to secure the young boy’s release and hold those responsible accountable.
