Whistleblower Mahdi Shehu Arrested by DSS Over Viral Video Claiming French Military Base in Northwest Nigeria
Mahdi Shehu, a prominent Kaduna-based activist and political commentator, has been arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over a viral video alleging the presence of a French military base in Nigeria’s Northwest region.
The video, which Shehu later deleted, sparked widespread concern about national security.
According to sources, Shehu is currently in DSS custody in Kaduna and may face court proceedings soon. His lawyer, Mustapha Abubakar, confirmed the arrest but declined to provide further details, citing his absence from Kaduna state.
This is not Shehu’s first encounter with law enforcement. In February, he was arrested and detained by the police in Abuja following a petition from the law office of former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN).
Shehu’s arrest has raised concerns about freedom of speech and the government’s handling of whistleblowers. His lawyer suggested that the arrest might be connected to efforts by Malami and some members of the previous government to silence Shehu for demanding accountability.
The DSS has yet to release an official statement on the matter.
Watch him get arrested HERE
