The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed five terrorism-related charges against Muhammad Mahdi Shehu, a self-proclaimed activist, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. His latest legal troubles follow his rearrest at a clinic in Unguwar Dosa, Kaduna, last week. Mahdi, previously granted bail by a Kaduna State High Court on charges of spreading misleading videos, is accused of sharing content deemed a threat to national security. His bail terms included a ₦3 million bond and two reputable clerics as sureties.
The DSS filed an ex parte motion under Section 66 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, securing a 60-day detention order from Justice Rilwan Aikawa to facilitate investigations.
Charges against Mahdi include:
- False Publication to Cause Public Alarm – Violates Section 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act.
- Dissemination of Terrorism-Related False Information – Contravenes Section 26(2)(a) and (b) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
- Intentional Dissemination of False Information – Violates Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act, 2024 (as amended).
- False Allegation of Treasonable Act – Contravenes Section 41 of the Criminal Code Act.
- Use of Social Media to Support False Allegations of National Security Threat – Violates Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act.
The DSS alleges that Mahdi disseminated doctored videos claiming the Nigerian government allowed France to establish a military base in Northern Nigeria. These charges include conspiracy, aiding and abetting terrorism, and inciting public disorder. The case underscores the government’s resolve to combat misinformation and address threats to national security.
