A Chief Magistrates’ Court in Kaduna State has ordered the detention of social commentator and activist Mahdi Shehu in prison over his involvement in circulating false and inflammatory videos.
Shehu faces charges related to spreading misinformation regarding the alleged presence of French troops in Nigeria and their association with President Bola Tinubu.
The controversy began when General Abdourahamane Tchiani, leader of the Niger Republic, accused President Tinubu of accepting significant financial support from France, which allegedly led to the establishment of a French military base in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In response, Shehu posted a video on social media that aimed to support Tchiani’s claims.
Shehu’s post was titled, “FGN SHOULD STOP THE DENIAL: FRANCE ARMED FORCES NOW THE OFFICIAL TRAINERS OF NIGERIA ARMED FORCES,” and contained various provocative statements.
He claimed that Nigerian leaders, including President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and military officials, were misleading the public about the presence of French troops in Nigeria.
He further criticized the government, alleging that the country was being betrayed and colonized by France.
However, investigations revealed that the video Shehu shared was actually recorded in 2013, disproving his claims.
Both Nuhu Ribadu and Information Minister Alhaji Mohammed Idris have publicly rejected the accusations as false.
On Tuesday, Shehu was charged by the Department of State Services (DSS) with conspiracy, aiding and abetting terrorism, and inciting public disturbances.
These charges are in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention & Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, 2017.
Magistrate Abubakar Lamido ordered that Shehu be held in custody until January 14, 2025, when the court will resume proceedings in the case.
