The Nigerian Army has explained the circumstances surrounding the arrest of popular blogger and social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, also known as Justice Crack.
In an official statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army said its attention was drawn to a social media post by Chidiebere where he highlighted complaints made by some soldiers regarding their feeding and general welfare.
While investigating the matter for possible breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and spreading of misinformation, the Army said preliminary findings revealed that Chidiebere had engaged the soldiers in discussions that allegedly sought to incite discontent and subversion within the ranks.
“A situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security,” the statement read.
Vanguard News reports how the Army alleged that Chidiebere’s interactions went beyond simple advocacy, with the military claiming a deeper investigation revealed his exchanges were intended to incite discontent and rebellion within the ranks.
Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers involved.
While the soldiers remained in military custody, the influencer was transferred to civilian authorities. “Justice Chidiebere has been handed over to the relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” the Army said.
A court has since remanded Chidiebere in SSS custody. The judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, ordered his remand and adjourned the matter until May 25 for the commencement of trial and hearing of a bail application.
Following the ruling, angry protesters formed a human blockade around SSS operatives, chanting “Free Justice Crack” and demanding his immediate release. Notable influencers, human rights campaigners, and activist Omoyele Sowore participated in the demonstration.
Sowore, in a post on X, demanded Chidiebere’s immediate release, alleging that his vehicle had been spotted at the offices of the Defence Intelligence Agency after he was picked up. “His only ‘offence’ appears to be speaking out and raising alarm over the extrajudicial killing of a youth corps member and drawing attention to the conditions faced by soldiers on the frontlines,” Sowore said.
Chidiebere’s wife also made a public plea, saying: “Please Nigerian government, please bring my husband back to me. Back to my children. They need their father. My daughter is just six years old. They do not deserve this. They deserve a father.”
