A young boy whose photo became viral ahead of the 2023 general elections for daring to stand in front of the convoy of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is reportedly languishing in the Kirikiri Prison, Lagos State.
Available reports says the boy was returning from work when he was swooped on by a group of individuals in his neighborhood and taken to the police station.
They accused him of being involved in theft and street fighting — claims some eyewitnesses and supporters say are false.
An X user with the handle @Hausa_girl brought attention to his case on Monday, writing: “Do you guys remember this picture? Well, the boy standing in front of this convoy is currently languishing in Kirikiri Prison.”
She added, “Jonathan told us about the young boy. I’ve spoken with his mother, and we also attended his last court hearing at Orege Court in Ajegunle on the 27th of March. The case was adjourned until the 28th of this month. I don’t chase clout with people’s lives!”
The case file is according to sources currently with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and the court is awaiting legal advice on how to proceed.
Supporters claim the boy is innocent and is suffering from the public perception that he was entitled after receiving financial gifts during the 2023 election season.
“He’s just a victim,” a commentator said. “He knows the names of all the individuals who took him to the police station — even the one who stole his phone.”
He is currently facing charges of stealing and public fighting.
Obi said, “Good morning all, So we’re talking to @InibeheEffiong about this case and we’ll be seeing him on Thursday alongside the boy’s mother, then proceed to the correctional center where he’s been held at to get the full brief from the boy. I’ll keep updating you all,” she added.
Meanwhile, Nigerian human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has called for the immediate rescue of the boy, citing his apparent innocence.
In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, Sowore said if anyone had access to his lawyers or family, they should kindly notify him at your earliest convenience.
“Given the boy’s apparent innocence, immediate rescue efforts are necessary to remove him from prison; if anyone has access to his lawyers and family, kindly notify us at your earliest convenience.”
