A public affairs analyst, Mahdi Shehu, has criticized a statement allegedly made by Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, claiming that Northerners engage in kidnapping to influence election outcomes. Shehu’s reaction, posted on social media, described the remark as reckless and divisive, exposing deep-seated prejudice.

According to Shehu, the governor’s comment was careless and intended to stereotype an entire region. He questioned why the North was singled out, wondering if criminal activities in the South should also be used to generalize about the region. Shehu asked if internet hackers, bank fraud networks, and hard drug merchants, predominantly found in the South, were involved in such activities to rig elections or divide the country.

The analyst accused the governor of ignorance and hatred, stating that the remark revealed a mindset driven by regional bias and unnecessary hostility. Shehu further described the governor as unable to comprehend financial figures, with his statement being akin to a poisonous comment seeking to cause harm.

The controversy began when Governor Obaseki linked the ongoing kidnappings and killings in northern Nigeria to a plot to destabilize the country and undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Shehu’s criticism highlights the need for public figures to exercise caution when making statements that could be perceived as divisive or inflammatory.

The exchange has sparked debate about the role of public figures in promoting national unity and the importance of responsible communication. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the governor will respond to the criticism and whether the issue will be addressed through further dialogue or action. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for leaders to prioritize unity and avoid making statements that could exacerbate existing tensions.