Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has called on Nigerian lawyer Inibehe Effiong to intervene in the case of a young man, Yusuf Alabi, who has reportedly been held in the Kirikiri Prison in Lagos State.
Yusuf Alabi, who gained attention during the 2023 general elections for his act of standing in front of Obi’s convoy, was allegedly detained following an encounter in his neighborhood. According to reports, Yusuf was returning from work when he was apprehended by local individuals, accused of theft and street fighting. However, some witnesses and supporters have disputed these claims, asserting that the accusations were false.
Peter Obi, responding to the situation, took to X on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, to express his concerns. He revealed that Yusuf has been detained for over three months without trial and only appeared in court for the first time in March, yet remains in custody. The former governor has since reached out to Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who has been actively working to secure Yusuf’s release.
In his post, Obi expressed his deep concern over the legal predicament Yusuf faces and appealed to the police and other government agents to adhere to the law in handling such matters. He emphasized that the government should refrain from using citizens, particularly the youth, as political tools.
“I was made aware of the situation of a young man, Quadri Yusuf Alabi, who has been unjustly detained for over three months without trial. His first court appearance was in March, and he is still being held in custody. I have contacted Barrister Inibehe Effiong, who is actively working on his case,” Obi stated.
Obi further appealed to the police and other government officials to act within the confines of the law, urging them to stop using youths as political pawns. He stressed the importance of nurturing the talents of young people to contribute positively to the nation’s development.
“I call on the police and other relevant authorities to always operate within the law and cease the weaponization of citizens, particularly our youth. These young people are the future of our country, and they should be empowered to channel their energy and creativity toward building a better Nigeria,” Obi added.
