A Lagos State Chief Magistrate Court on Thursday dismissed the armed robbery charge brought against 17-year-old Alabi Quadri, who gained public attention after standing in front of the convoy of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections. Chief Magistrate Adetola Olorunfemi discharged Quadri based on legal advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins.
According to Magistrate Olorunfemi, the DPP’s legal review found no evidence to support the police’s allegation of armed robbery against Quadri.
The legal advice also recommended that Quadri and another defendant, Muiz Animashaun, should not be prosecuted. The two had been standing trial alongside three other individuals, for whom the DPP concluded there was a prima facie case, and therefore advised that their trial should proceed.
Speaking to reporters after the court session, Quadri’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, praised the DPP for ensuring justice prevailed.
Effiong also called on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and the Inspector General of Police to immediately remove the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Amukoko Division and initiate disciplinary proceedings against him.
Additionally, he demanded disciplinary action against the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers involved, accusing them of participating in a corrupt and oppressive plot to falsely accuse a teenager at the instigation of local thugs known as “Area Boys.”
Effiong further insisted that the Nigeria Police Force compensate Quadri with ₦100 million and issue a formal public apology.