Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has said Nigerian youths are being paid N20,000 monthly to insult politicians.

Obi made the claim while speaking at John Hopkins, Washington DC.

Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said most of the time, the youths who insult you are the ones you are actually fighting for as a politician.

He said, "Go to Nigeria, youths are being paid just ₦20,000 by politicians to insult those f!fighting for their future on social media.”

Meanwhile, Obi has announced that Quadri Yusuf, the young boy who became popular after blocking his convoy in 2023, has regained his freedom from police detention.

He shared, "Today, I had the opportunity to meet with Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the young boy whose story moved us all. After enduring unjust and illegal incarceration, he is finally free, and I am very grateful to the lawyers led by @InibeheEffiong, who fought for his release and also @DeleFarotimi and Ms Hassana Nurudeen,, whose constant intervention was instrumental in securing justice for the young lad.

*I listened to Quadri today, and one thing stood out clearly: his unwavering desire for education. Despite all he has been through, his only dream is to return to school and complete his education and I will make sure he gets it.

"His determination is not just inspiring; it is a call to action, and I am committed to ensuring that he gets the education he desires and deserves.

"In addition, we must not stop at his release. Those responsible for his illegal incarceration must be held accountable. As we strive to build a Nigeria where fairness and integrity prevail, we cannot afford to allow such acts of criminality to go unpunished.

"I once again thank the lawyers and everyone who stood and remained unrelenting for justice.

"Together, we will build a Nigeria where education, freedom, rule of law, equity and justice, care and protection of the less privileged in our midst will stand as the foundation of our democracy."

ASA