Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu has strongly criticised a statement reportedly made by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who allegedly claimed that Northerners engage in kidnapping to influence election outcomes.
Shehu reacted to the claim on Saturday in a post on X, where he called the comment reckless and divisive. He said it showed deep-rooted bias and questioned the motive behind such a statement.
He wrote that the governor’s comment was careless and that its intention was immediately clear.
Shehu asked why the governor would target the North while ignoring crimes in the South. He said it was unfair to use the actions of a few to label an entire region.
“If so, what of internet hackers, bank fraud networks and hard drugs merchants predominantly in the South? Are they doing so to rig elections or to divide Nigeria?” he asked.
“We welcome both the rigging and the division,” he said.
In his post, Shehu accused the governor of spreading hate and lacking understanding. He said the comment showed clear recklessness and visible ignorance, and that it reflected a mindset filled with regional bias and needless hostility.
He went on to call the governor a cowardly, budget-ignorant miscreant, unable to read figures. He said the remark was like a poison arrow looking for where to spit.
He ended his reaction with, “Shame on you. Back to sender.”
Governor Okpebholo had earlier linked the rise in kidnappings and ings in the North to what he described as a planned effort to deilise Nigeria and weaken President Bola Tinubu’s government.
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Is this analyst just stirring the pot or does Okpebholo really need to watch what he says? 🤔
I cant believe Okpebholos comments! Whats your take on this situation? Should public figures be more cautious with their words?
I dont know about you guys, but I think Okpebholos alleged comment was way out of line. What do you think?
I cant believe Okpebholos comments! How can anyone defend kidnappings? This is outrageous and unacceptable. Justice must be served.
I cant believe Okpebholos alleged comment! Public Analyst has a point, Northern kidnappings are a serious issue. Accountability is crucial here.
I think the Public Analyst was too harsh on Okpebholo. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if its controversial.
Who does Okpebholo think he is? Public Analyst is right to call him out on his insensitive comments. Outrageous behavior!
Is the Public Analyst being fair or biased in slamming Okpebholo over alleged comments on Northern kidnappings? Lets discuss!
Seriously, can we focus on the real issue here instead of getting caught up in petty arguments? Lets address the root cause of kidnappings in the North.
I cant believe Okpebholos comments! Public Analyst has a point, we need to hold leaders accountable for their words.
I think the Public Analyst was too harsh on Okpebholo. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if we dont agree.
I cant believe Okpebholos comments! Public Analyst is right to call them out. Whats your take on this controversy?
Is it fair to criticize someones comments without considering the context and intent behind them? Lets discuss!