Renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama has confirmed on his official X handle that the Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Kaduna-based activist and political commentator, Mahdi Shehu, over allegations of disseminating a misleading viral video.
The arrest, which took place over the weekend, has sparked widespread discussions online. According to sources, Shehu is accused of sharing outdated footage falsely claiming the Nigerian government was planning to establish a French military base in the North-West. The video, which quickly gained traction on social media, reportedly raised national security concerns before Shehu deleted it.
While Zagazola Makama noted that he could not independently verify all the details, reliable sources have stated that Shehu remains in DSS custody in Kaduna. Authorities are said to be preparing for his arraignment in court.
This incident adds to Mahdi Shehu’s controversial history. In the past, the outspoken activist has faced legal battles, including accusations of attempted extortion. Former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami previously alleged that Shehu had been involved in fraudulent activities, though Shehu and his legal team have consistently denied such claims, attributing them to political victimization.
Shehu’s lawyer has once again defended his client, describing the current arrest as another politically motivated move. According to him, it stems from Shehu’s persistent calls for accountability regarding the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and his allies.
Despite these assertions, Malami’s camp has maintained that Shehu’s prior arrests were based on credible charges of extortion and related offenses, dismissing any claims of political bias.
The DSS has assured the public that due process will be followed in handling the case, emphasizing that Shehu’s rights will be protected throughout the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
This latest arrest has reignited debates about the fine line between free speech and national security, as well as the consequences of spreading unverified information in an age of rapid digital communication.
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