- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Police Command has defended the arrest and prosecution of Quadri Alabi, the boy who stood in from of Peter Obi’s convoy during the 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential campaign in he state.
Despite a no-case advice tendered before the Apapa Magistrate Court by the Director of Public Prosecution, Dr. Babajide Martins, during Quadri’s trial on Thursday, the Police Command insisted that the boy was arrested over public disturbance and robbery.
This was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin.
The Command recounted how Quadri whom they claimed to be 18-years-old was arrested and arraigned in connection to a serious breach of public peace and extensive damage to public and private properties on the 22nd of January in Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun local government area of Lagos.
“The Lagos State Police Command is aware of public concerns surrounding the case of Alabi Quadri, an 18-year-old who was remanded to Correctional Service following his involvement in violent attacks, public disturbance, causing extensive damage to public and private properties, and injuries to persons standing by in the Amukoko area of Lagos State earlier this year.
“On January 22, 2025 to be precise , a serious breach of public peace and extensive damage to public and private properties occurred in Amukoko when groups of youths engaged in violent confrontations that escalated into street fights for all, causing widespread violence, panic, and chaos.
“During the chaos, a number of innocent passersby were reported to have been robbed and injured.
“In response, Police officers of the Command immediately launched an investigation into the incident. More crucial information was provided by members of the community, some of whom witnessed the incident and recognized several individuals involved.
“Victims of the robbery also came forward to give statements and positively identified the perpetrators.
“Following a thorough and transparent investigation, Alabi Quadri and four others were arrested and charged to court in connection with the crime.
“The suspects were remanded by the court to correctional facility pending the conclusion of legal proceedings in the matter.” Hundeyin wrote.
While reiterating the Command’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, the spokesperson claimed that the Police actions were taken in accordance with laid-down processes and was based on thorough investigation.
He urged members of the public to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course, stressing that the police actions end once matters are taken to court.
“The Lagos State Police Command undoubtedly reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law to ensure justice in all matters, and also ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
“All Police actions taken in this case have been in the laid-down processes and in accordance with due process, procedures, and based on credible evidence gathered during the investigation.
“We urge the public to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course and be fully exhausted in the case.
“The Command remains open to engaging with the general public, opinion groups, and community stakeholders to transparently clarify every concern and ensure justice is served fairly and transparently.
“It’s statutory procedure in the Criminal Justice System and codes that police actions terminate where matters are taken to court.
“Members of the general public in Lagos State are enjoined to stay calm and peaceful, and allow peace to reign to ensure justice for all.” Hundeyin added.