A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of social media influencer and blogger Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as “Justice Crack”, in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged false claims concerning the welfare of Nigerian soldiers.
Mark, who resides at Plot 88, Sabo Lugbe, Abuja, was arraigned by the DSS on a three-count charge bordering on allegedly publishing false information.
He is accused of making a viral post on his X handle in which he claimed that Nigerian military personnel are poorly fed.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him in court.
Prosecution Seeks Remand, Defence Applies for Bail
Prosecuting counsel, Emmanuel Orubo, urged the court to remand the defendant in DSS custody while also asking for time to open the prosecution’s case.
Defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, made an oral application for bail, but the court directed him to file a formal bail application instead.
Ruling on the matter, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered that the defendant be remanded in DSS custody and adjourned the case to May 25, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial.
Arrest and Military Involvement
Mark’s arrest followed a joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army and the DSS.
The Nigerian Army had earlier confirmed his arrest, stating that preliminary investigations suggested his online interactions with soldiers went beyond welfare discussions and allegedly bordered on incitement.
According to the acting director of Army public relations, Appolonia Anele, a colonel, the blogger had engaged soldiers in conversations that raised concerns of subversion and attempts to create internal disaffection.
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The Army said its attention was drawn to a social media post in which Mark highlighted alleged complaints by soldiers over feeding and welfare conditions.
A statement from the Army noted that further review of his communications showed what it described as “conversations bordering on subversion” with military personnel.
Court Drama and Protest
The case briefly sparked tension at the Federal High Court premises on Monday when DSS operatives attempted to move the influencer out after proceedings.
A group of youths reportedly blocked the operatives, chanting “Free Justice Crack” and demanding his release, describing his detention as unjust.
Security operatives later overpowered the protesters and escorted the defendant away.
Some activists, including Omoyele Sowore and Peter Akah, were reportedly present during the protest.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.