Activist Mahdi Shehu Detained on Terrorism-Related Charges
A Chief Magistrate Court in Kaduna has ordered the detention of activist Mahdi Shehu at the Kaduna Correctional Service Facility. The Department of State Services (DSS) has charged Shehu with conspiracy, aiding terrorism, and inciting public disturbances. These charges follow allegations of spreading false claims regarding a French military base in Nigeria.
Social Media Post Sparks Arrest
Shehu’s arrest stemmed from a December 2024 post alleging that President Bola Tinubu allowed France to establish a military base in northern Nigeria. The post, accompanied by an outdated video of Nigerian troops in Mali, accused the government of ceding parts of the country to foreign powers. Despite deleting the post, Shehu shared additional videos to support his claims, prompting backlash from national security officials.
Government Denies Allegations
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Information Minister Mohammed Idris dismissed Shehu’s claims as baseless and harmful to Nigeria’s stability. Security agencies assert that Shehu’s posts spread misinformation and endangered national security. The DSS subsequently obtained a court order to detain Shehu for 60 days while conducting investigations.
Legal Proceedings and Bail
On January 1, a Kaduna magistrate court remanded Shehu on charges of aiding terrorism and inciting public disturbance. Shehu was later arraigned at the Federal High Court, where he received bail on January 9, set at N30 million. Despite this, the activist was re-arrested at his Kaduna clinic shortly after his release.
New Charges Filed by DSS
The DSS filed a five-count charge against Shehu under the Terrorism (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022. These charges include false publication, incitement, and intentional use of social media to spread misinformation. Shehu’s trial, initially set for January 14, has been postponed for further hearing.
Public Reactions and Broader Implications
Former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar condemned Shehu’s detention, describing it as a sign of growing authoritarianism. The case highlights tensions between activism and national security in Nigeria. As Shehu awaits trial, his case raises questions about freedom of expression and government accountability.
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