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Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu has criticized a statement allegedly made by the Edo State Governor, which claims that Northerners engage in kidnapping to influence elections.

Shehu shared his response on Saturday via a post on X, condemning the remark as reckless and divisive.

In response to the governor’s alleged comment, Shehu stated that the statement revealed significant prejudice.

He remarked that the governor's comment was thoughtless and that its intent was immediately apparent.

Shehu questioned why the governor would specifically target the North, asking if criminal activities reported in the southern part of the country should also be used to generalize about an entire region.

“If that’s the case, what about internet hackers, bank fraud networks, and drug traffickers predominantly found in the South? Are they doing this to rig elections or to fracture Nigeria?” he inquired.

“We welcome both the rigging and the division,” he stated.

In a post, the commentator accused the governor of ignorance and animosity.

He stated that the comment displayed clear recklessness and evident ignorance, indicating a mindset fueled by regional bias and unnecessary hostility.

Shehu further characterized the governor as a cowardly individual, ignorant of budgetary matters and incapable of interpreting figures.

He added that his statement was akin to a poisoned arrow seeking a target.

He concluded his reaction with, “Shame on you. Return to sender.”

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State had on Wednesday connected the ongoing kidnappings and killings in the northern regions of the country to a deliberately malicious scheme aimed at destabilizing Nigeria and undermining the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Mahdi Shehu criticize about the Edo State Governor's statement?

Mahdi Shehu criticized the governor's statement for being reckless and divisive, suggesting it exhibited deep prejudice against the North.

How did Shehu respond to the governor's comments?

Shehu responded by questioning the governor's intention and highlighted the dangers of stereotyping an entire region based on the actions of a few individuals.

What was the governor's claim regarding kidnappings?

Governor Monday Okpebholo linked the kidnappings and killings in the northern regions to a sinister plot aimed at destabilizing Nigeria and undermining President Bola Tinubu's administration.