Quadri Alabi, the teen who stood in front of Mr Peter Obi's convoy, has regained freedom from prison. It could be recalled that news of his detention went viral a few days ago, after he has spent months in Kirikiri prison. Many Nigerians, including Mr Peter Obi, condemned his detention and demanded his release. Activist lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, his lead counsel, announced the development in a social media post on Thursday. He wrote, "We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025. Our client, Quadri was abducted by two ‘Area Boys’ who are notoriously known in the community as Lege and Baba Waris close to his family residence at Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area and dumped at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters (Pako Police Station) in Lagos State. "Quadri was returning from work when he was grabbed by the duo, who along with other jealous and entitled Area Boys in the community, have been harassing him and threatening to deal with him since 2023 for not giving them ‘their share’ of donations gifted him during the last elections period. Quadri’s family informed us that the Baale of the community equally pressured them to buy a cow and rice and cook for the community to appease the Area Boys. The abductors initially told the officers at Amukoko Police Station that our client was involved in street fighting. To the consternation of Quadri and his family, the police on 26th January, 2025 took Quadri before a Magistrate in Apapa, and obtained an order remanding him at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri on a trumped-up charge of armed robbery. The police fraudulently joined Quadri with four strange adults who had no form of connection or relationship whatsoever with him and claimed that the four strange men were his case mates. As part of the diabolical frame-up of our client, the officers at Amukoko Police Station also misrepresented his age to be 18, knowing that disclosing his actual age would likely raise eyebrows. When we were briefed by Quadri’s mother a week ago, after the matter was brought to public attention by Ms. Hassana Nurudeen, the Co-founder of Ray of Hope Prison Outreach, we swiftly escalated the case and took necessary steps towards securing his freedom. At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri. In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed. We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter. We demand that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and the Inspector General of Police, should as a matter of urgency, remove the DPO of Amukoko Divisional Headquarters and subject him to orderly room trial along with the IPO, one Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers who participated in this evil, sinister, oppressive, and corrupt scheme of framing-up a teenager for armed robbery at the behest of rogue ‘Area Boys’. We demand that the Nigeria Police Force should pay the sum of One Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) to our client as compensation. Also, we also demand a public apology from the police. If the above three remedial demands are not fully complied with immediately, we shall initiate legal actions to seek redress. Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force. There are many Quadris languishing in detention centres across Nigeria because of the unbridled criminality, lawlessness, and lack of accountability in the Police institution and the weakness of the justice system. History will vindicate the just."

Terrorists have continued their deadly reign in the Northern Nigeria, as they ambushed a team of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), killing three of its officers in Kebbi State. The hoodlums also burnt patrol vehicles during the attack. This comes amid renewed onslaught by terrorists in different parts of the country, with Boko Haram said to be occupying at least three communities in Borno State. The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who confirmed the latest ISWAP attack during a working visit to the Niger/Kogi Area Command of the Service, expressed over the activities of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) at the Babanna border in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. He described their presence as a serious threat to national security and border operations. Adeniyi said the officers were ambushed in the Bashaka area of Kebbi State. “Three of our officers were recently killed in Bashaka, Kebbi State. They were taken by surprise as the attackers shelled them, burnt their vehicles, and opened fire on all of them," he said. He added that customs operatives narrowly escaped another ambush by ISWAP militants after seizing 500 jerricans of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at the Babanna border. The smugglers were suspected of supplying fuel to terrorists and armed bandits. Adeniyi, represented by the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration, and Special Duties, Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu stressed the need for enhanced collaboration with other security agencies and urged officers to remain vigilant amid rising threats. “It would interest you to know that most of these bandits attacking us get their fuel through smugglers, giving the adversaries the power to move around and attack citizens,” he said. He warned that terrorist groups now operate in border areas of Niger, Kebbi, and Borno states, including ISWAP, Boko Haram, and Lakurawa, some of whom, he claimed, live among local communities.

Good morning- Below are major news reports making headlines in Nigerian Newspapers today: 1. Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on his "own disastrous Presidency." Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, believes the insecurity ravaging the country has overwhelmed the government, noting that Nigeria is in a full-blown state of emergency. 2. The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has further reviewed its ex-depot loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The new price is set at N835 per litre, down from N865 per litre implemented six days ago, marking a 3.5 percent decrease. 3. Arsenal stunned Real Madrid on Wednesday after completing a double at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Gunners, who travelled to Spain with a healthy 3-0 lead from the first leg, won 2-1 to head to the UEFA Champions League semi finals. 4. Many Nigerians could be left stranded as the United States of America begins a process to cancel visas for at least 901 international students. The development, which will lead to legal status terminations, has sparked panic and confusion on college campuses nationwide. 5. The Nigeria Police has announced the arrest of two high profile suspects as it pushes to end the wanton killings and destruction of properties in Plateau State. This was confirmed in a statement released by the Force Headquarters on Wednesday. 6. The Rivers State Government, on Wednesday, dismissed viral reports that it summoned the suspended governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Mrs. Ngozi Nma Odu. In a statement made available to journalists, signed by Sir Dede Sampson Friday, Permanent Secretary, Special Services Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the Rivers State  Government, he issued stern warning against those spreading fake news. 7. Members of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), the defunct Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, bloc of the have declared their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu. Amid coalition talks in the country, the CPC members have now dismissed reports of a possible defection from the APC, stressing that such a claim was mischievous. 8. Thirty-six cows have been reportedly killed and 42 poisoned on Wednesday around the Tafi Gana junction area of Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), in Bassa LGA, Ya’u Idris, confirmed the incident to Daily Trust. 9. The naira depreciated against the dollar at both parallel and official foreign exchange markets on Wednesday. The depreciation, for the first time since last week, weakened the Naira to N1,620 per dollar on Wednesday from N1,610 traded on Tuesday. 10. Hundreds of suspected Boko Haram members have been arrested in Lagos State. This was disclosed by the Commander of the Civilian Joint Task Force in Lagos, Mr Kumar Sanda, on Wednesday.

Amid talks of coalition by opposition politicians and aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), the defunct Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, bloc of the have declared their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu. CPC members are core loyalists of former president, Muhammadu Buhari. Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, had recently defected to the Social Democratic Party, (SDP), fueling more speculations of mass exodus from the ruling party. However, the CPC members have now dismissed reports of a possible defection from the APC, stressing that such a claim was mischievous. They disclosed this in a statement signed by U.T Al-Makura and Osita Okechukwu on behalf of the CPC bloc in the APC after their meeting. The group said, "We, as representatives of committed members of the former Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), who were part of those instrumental in the historic merger that gave birth to the All Progressives Congress (APC), hereby issue this statement to clarify our unalloyed loyalty to our great party and express firm solidarity with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. "Recent misleading narratives suggesting a defection or disaffection among CPC stakeholders are mischievous and should be ignored. "We remain integral to the APC and are fully aligned with its leadership and vision. "Our position is as follows: We wish to state categorically that we have neither left the APC nor do we intend to leave. The CPC bloc remains one of the legacy foundations of the APC, and we are resolute in our commitment to the party and its progressive ideals. "As part of the legacy parties that formed the APC, we take pride in the sacrifices made to build a platform that promotes national unity, justice, and development. "We will not allow some people to dismantle the party we helped to build through years of tireless work and dedication. "Though challenging, these policies are necessary steps to rebuild our economy and secure a better future for all Nigerians. "We urge patience and collective support as the benefits unfold.While we acknowledge that some party members may feel sidelined, we emphasize that such grievances are not exclusive to any one bloc. "We advise those concerned to seek redress through constitutional channels within the party and not to resort to negative public agitation or hasty exits from the party. "At this critical point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, it is imperative for all APC members— especially those with deep roots in the party’s formation—to work together to preserve its legacy and help consolidate Nigeria’s democracy. "We must avoid actions that erode our unity and the stability of the nation.We call on the leadership of the APC to scale up engagement with members across all levels. "Strengthening internal communication will reduce tension, foster inclusiveness, and enhance support for the party’s programs. "Party unity must be nurtured continuously in order to sustain the gains and to secure the future.We therefore reaffirm our loyalty to the APC and our support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The CPC family remains a vital pillar of the APC and will continue to play a responsible role in its growth and in the progress of Nigeria."

Nigerians have cheering news as Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has further reviewed its ex-depot loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. NATIONAL POST reports that this is not unconnected with the drop in the price of crude oil at the international market. It is coming a few days to the Easter celebration. The new price is set at N835 per litre, down from N865 per litre implemented six days ago, marking a 3.5 percent decrease. The company informed its customers of the price reduction via a notice on Wednesday, marking Dangote’s third downward adjustment under six weeks. Previously, the refinery had reduced its gantry price from N880 to N865 per litre, however, oil marketers did not pass on the savings to consumers. Dagote’s retail partners, such as MRS, AP (Ardova), Heyden, Optima Energy, Hyde, and Techno Oil are expected to reflect the new price adjustment.

The Nigeria Police has announced the arrest of two high profile suspects as it pushes to end the wanton killings and destruction of properties in Plateau State. This was confirmed in a statement released by the Force Headquarters on Wednesday. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun condemned the recent wave of killings in the State, describing them as “senseless, utterly reprehensible, and a grave assault on national peace and security.” It could be recalled that over 50 persons were slaughtered in the state on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. According to the statement, two high-profile suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings in Bokkos Local Government Area and are currently assisting with ongoing investigations. “The Nigeria Police Force is diligently working to uncover the motives behind these attacks, identify and apprehend other suspects involved in the killings,” the statement read. As part of efforts to stabilize the security situation in the state, the IGP directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Operations, Kwazhi Dali Yakubu, to take charge of all police operations in Plateau State. Following this directive, the DIG has led a team on aerial surveillance missions over the Bokkos and Bassa areas and is currently engaging local stakeholders in a confidence-building effort. “After a comprehensive review of the security operations, the IGP has ordered the immediate deployment of additional police personnel and resources to Plateau State to enhance rapid response and patrol high-risk areas. “The Inspector-General of Police extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and stands in solidarity with the people of Plateau State during this difficult time,” the Force added. The Nigeria Police reaffirmed its dedication to bringing all perpetrators of the attacks to justice and ensuring the safety and security of citizens in the state.

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on his "own disastrous Presidency." It could be recalled that Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was one of those who vehemently opposed the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by Tinubu. He now believes the insecurity ravaging the country has overwhelmed the government, noting that Nigeria is in a full-blown state of emergency. In a statement on Wednesday by his spokesman, Paul Ibe, Atiku said while Tinubu is in France, Nigeria has fallen into chaos with Plateau State turning into a killing field, while Benue State is bleeding. He said: "On April 2, 2025, President Bola Tinubu flew out to France. Had this absurd announcement come just a day earlier, Nigerians would have dismissed it as an April Fool’s joke. But sadly, it’s no prank — just another insult to a nation pushed to the brink by a presidency that treats its citizens like fools. "The official excuse? A so-called "working visit." But Nigerians aren’t buying the spin. The presidency scrambled to clarify that it wasn’t a medical trip — how noble. But even if it’s not medical tourism, what justification is there for gallivanting across Europe while Nigeria bleeds? What kind of leader borrows billions only to blow scarce funds on vanity trips abroad? It’s not just irresponsible— it’s contemptuous. "Let the facts speak for themselves. By the time Tinubu struts back from this latest escapade, he will have racked up a staggering 59 days in France since assuming office. “See Paris and die?” No — see Paris and abandon your country. "While Tinubu dines under chandeliers in the land of good governance, the country he governs is spiraling into chaos. Plateau has turned into a killing field — over 100 lives lost in relentless attacks. Benue is bleeding. Boko Haram is seizing territory. And every single day, Nigerians sink deeper into poverty, insecurity, and despair. "This isn’t just negligence. It’s dereliction of duty on a catastrophic scale. "If Tinubu had even a shred of empathy, he would cut his trip short and return immediately. A leader with an ounce of patriotism wouldn’t need to be begged to show up in times of crisis. The constitution says the security and welfare of the people is the primary purpose of government. But under Tinubu, that sacred duty has been trashed. "Let’s be honest: there is absolutely nothing Tinubu is doing in France that he couldn’t do in Lagos, or even in Iragbiji. This so-called “working visit” is nothing more than a vacation cloaked in official jargon. "Nigeria is in a full-blown state of emergency. Not a contrived political emergency like what Tinubu declared in Rivers for partisan gain — this is a national collapse. So when, exactly, will Tinubu declare a state of emergency on his own disastrous presidency?"