In a heartwarming twist to a story that started in tragedy, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has extended a life-changing scholarship to Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year-old who won hearts nationwide after bravely standing in front of Obi’s campaign convoy in 2023.
Quadri’s life took a dark turn earlier this year when he was unjustly arrested and detained at the Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre in Lagos on a false charge of armed robbery. According to reports, he was abducted by street thugs near his home in Amukoko, Lagos, and handed over to the police, who shockingly falsified his age as 18 to justify throwing him into adult detention.
The case sparked outrage after it was revealed that there was no evidence linking Quadri to any crime. Human rights lawyer and activist, Inibehe Effiong, who led the legal charge for his release, condemned the entire episode as “a corrupt and oppressive scheme.” He is now demanding a public apology and a ₦100 million compensation from the authorities for the pain and trauma inflicted on the young boy.
Thankfully, Quadri was released after spending nearly three harrowing months in detention, and his story didn’t go unnoticed.
In a powerful show of compassion, Peter Obi personally met with Quadri and, through his legal team, pledged to sponsor his education and vocational training. According to his lawyer, Obi has committed to empowering Quadri through education, helping him get back on his feet and build a better future.
To further support his recovery, a fundraising campaign was launched to help Quadri and his family relocate to a safer area and support his rehabilitation and education. In just two hours, the campaign had already raised over ₦3 million, showing the incredible love and solidarity Nigerians still have for one of their own.
This inspiring act by Peter Obi is more than a scholarship—it’s a symbol of hope, justice, and the Nigerian spirit that refuses to stay down in the face of adversity.
