Kaduna-based activist and socio-political critic, Mahdi Shehu, has spoken out following his release from detention after meeting a bail condition of N3 million.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Shehu expressed gratitude to his supporters, as well as those indifferent or critical of his situation, during his 12-day detention.
Shehu was arrested for sharing a misleading video on social media claiming that French military forces had bases in Nigeria. Authorities alleged the video could incite tension and pose a threat to national security. However, the Kaduna State High Court granted him bail on Thursday.
While thanking his supporters for their prayers, concern, and solidarity, Shehu also extended appreciation to his critics and indifferent individuals.
“During my arrest, detention, and incarceration spanning 12 days, I have a duty and obligation to thank the following classes of people,” Shehu wrote.
“To those genuinely worried, supportive, and prayerful, your prayers were felt and served their purpose.
“To those who were happy and celebrative, I thank you because you emboldened me and offered seasoning to my worldview.
“To those sitting on the fence—neither concerned nor supportive but silent—I acknowledge your indifference, which one day will place you somewhere, either as victims or villains, willy-nilly.”
Shehu also apologized for his inability to respond to over 4 million messages received across various social media platforms during his detention.
