Viral Peter Obi Supporter Detained In Kirikiri Prison Over Disputed Theft Allegations

A young man who captured national attention during the 2023 general elections for boldly standing in front of the campaign convoy of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, is currently being held at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre under controversial circumstances.

The viral supporter, whose identity is being withheld for legal reasons, was reportedly arrested in Lagos after returning home from work. He now faces allegations of theft and public disturbance—charges his supporters describe as retaliatory and baseless.

According to multiple sources familiar with the case, the young man was taken into custody by individuals known to him, allegedly after a personal disagreement. Activists claim one of his accusers was previously involved in the theft of his mobile phone, further casting doubt on the motives behind the complaint.

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has taken up the case, citing concerns over due process and prolonged detention. Effiong confirmed that the matter is before the Orege Magistrate Court, but progress has stalled due to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) not yet issuing legal advice.

Recommended News:

• Total Blackout: Sagamu Youths Ground IBEDC Business Hub Over Unbearable Power Outages
• BREAKING: Batoro Community In Remo Mourns As Oba Suleiman Odeyemi Passes On
• Sagamu Schools Violence: Ogun Lawmaker, Omooba Damilare Bello (DRE) Leads Campaign For Safer Learning Environment

A concerned X (formerly Twitter) user with the handle @Hausa_girl, who attended one of the court sessions, reported: “We were in court today, but there’s still no advice from the DPP. He remains in custody.”

Meanwhile, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has called for urgent public intervention. “This young man needs immediate legal and moral support. Anyone in contact with his legal team should reach out,” Sowore wrote on social media.

Supporters argue that the young man has become a victim of his own visibility, with some neighbors reportedly resenting him for the modest gifts he received during the 2023 campaign season.

“He’s suffering because of how people perceive him, not because of any real wrongdoing,” said one observer.

The next court hearing is scheduled for April 28, 2025. Until then, the young supporter remains behind bars, sparking wider conversations about systemic injustice, abuse of power, and the criminalization of youth activism in Nigeria.