DSS detains Kaduna-Based activist Mahdi Shehu over viral video of French military base in the North-West region

December 30, 2024

By Ayinde Adeleke

Mahdi Shehu, a prominent activist and political commentator based in Kaduna, has been taken into custody by the Department of State Services (DSS) over allegations of sharing a misleading video that went viral on social media.

The video, which Shehu has since deleted, falsely suggested that the Nigerian government planned to establish a French military base in the North-West region, sparking concerns about national security.

According to sources, Shehu’s arrest occurred over the weekend, and he is currently being held in custody in Kaduna.

The DSS has reportedly issued directives for Shehu’s arraignment, ensuring that his rights are protected during his detention.

This is not Shehu’s first run-in with the law. He was previously arrested for attempted extortion, as confirmed by former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami.

Shehu’s lawyer, however, claimed that the arrest was politically motivated, stemming from Shehu’s calls for an investigation into former President Muhammadu Buhari and his associates.

Shehu’s detention has sparked a heated debate on social media, with some users praising the DSS for taking action against the spread of fake news, while others have expressed concerns about the implications for freedom of speech.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Shehu’s case will proceed. One thing is certain, however: the incident highlights the growing importance of verifying information in the digital age, and the need for accountability when it comes to spreading misinformation.