Alabi, boy in Obi’s 2023 viral rally photo, arraigned for stealing

Yusuf Alabi, the young boy who gained fame after appearing in iconic photos with Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential campaign, has been detained in Kirikiri prison for months over allegations of theft and fighting—claims his family insists are false.

Yusuf Alabi

According to advocacy group Ray of Hopes, Alabi was arrested after local street urchins (egbon adugbo) allegedly stopped him on his way home from work, seized his phone, and handed him over to the police, accusing him of being part of a criminal gang.

Sources close to the family claim his plight was a retaliation after his parents refused to “settle” area boys who demanded a share of the gifts and money Alabi received following his viral encounter with Obi and others in 2023.

The minor made his first court appearance on March 27, with the next hearing scheduled for April 28.

If convicted, he could face prolonged detention despite protests of his innocence.

At the height of the campaigns, Ali finally met with Obi, who was the presidential flagbearer of the Labour Party.

Speculations grew that Obi and the Obidients Movement would take up his sponsorship through school.

When interviewed, an enthusiastic Ali, said, “I stood infront of Peter Obi’s convoy because I wish I am up to 18 years old so I that i can vote for him. But since I can not vote for him,

“I came to the front of his car to pray for him so that he will win the election. My parents and my uncles and aunts said he is a good man.”

Sowore wades in

Meanwhile, activist Omoyele Sowore has waded into the matter.

“Given the boy’s apparent innocence, immediate rescue efforts are necessary; if anyone has access to his lawyers and family, kindly notify us at your earliest convenience,” he wrote on his personal Facebook page.

The 2023 presidential elections in Nigeria

The 2023 Nigerian presidential election was held on February 25, 2023, with Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress emerging as the winner.

He garnered 36.61% of the vote, approximately 8.8 million votes.

Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party secured 29.07%, while Peter Obi of the Labour Party obtained 25.40%.

The election was marked by controversies, including reports of vote buying, voter intimidation, and disputes over results.

The Independent National Electoral Commission faced criticism for delayed uploading of polling unit results and perceived bias.

Opposition candidates rejected the announced results, citing fraud and violence, and vowed to challenge the outcome. Bola Tinubu was sworn in as President on May 29, 2023.

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