“There is no basis for prosecuting this boy. The evidence simply doesn’t exist,” the DPP’s statement concluded.

Human rights lawyer, who has advocated for Quadri's release, said the teenager’s legal troubles stemmed not from criminal behaviour but from "long-standing resentment" among local area boys.

“His recent ordeal in the Nigerian prison system was not due to any serious criminal offence. “It was the result of targeted intimidation,” Effiong said.

Effiong also confirmed that the court date was originally set for April 28, 2025, but he and the DPP successfully requested an earlier hearing.

Quadri became a symbol of youthful courage during the tense pre-election period in 2023, drawing praise and concern after a video of him blocking Peter Obi’s convoy went viral on social media.

With his release, supporters and activists are calling for systemic reforms to prevent similar injustices against minors in the Nigerian justice system.