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KADUNA, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — Kaduna-based activist and political commentator Adamu Shehu has been arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) following the circulation of a controversial video online, sparking renewed debate over freedom of expression and national security.
The DSS detained Shehu over the weekend after he shared an outdated video falsely alleging the Nigerian government planned to establish a French military base in the North-West. Although Shehu deleted the footage after it went viral, it had already triggered public alarm.
“He is currently in DSS custody in Kaduna,” a security source told counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, adding that preparations are underway for Shehu’s court arraignment. Authorities have assured that his rights will be respected during his detention.
The DSS has not yet released an official statement about the arrest.
This is not Shehu’s first run-in with law enforcement. In February, he was detained by police in Abuja following a petition filed by the law office of former Minister of Justice and Attorney General Abubakar Malami (SAN). The petition reportedly accused Shehu of defaming Malami and his family.
“I was told he was arrested pursuant to a petition written by the chambers of the former AGF, Abubakar Malami, on behalf of Malami and his family,” a close associate of Shehu said at the time.
