The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of a social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack”, alongside some military personnel, over an alleged attempt to incite soldiers and breach military social media regulations.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the arrest followed online complaints by the influencer about soldiers’ feeding and welfare.
According to the Army, the matter is currently under investigation, with preliminary findings suggesting that the influencer engaged soldiers in conversations that could undermine discipline within the ranks.
“While the matter is being investigated for breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public, preliminary report reveals that the soldiers discussed wide range of issues with Justice Chidiebere who seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system,” the statement read.
The Army further disclosed that some exchanges between the influencer and the soldiers addressed sensitive matters.
“An example was a chat bothering on subversion which Chidiebere had with the soldiers,” the statement read. “It is important to state that a situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security.”
The Army said Chidiebere was apprehended alongside the affected soldiers as part of ongoing investigations.
It added that while the soldiers remain in military custody, the influencer has been transferred to civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“Hence, Justice Chidiebere was picked by the Nigerian Army alongside the soldiers for investigation. While the soldiers remain in own custody, Chidiebere has been handed over to the relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” said Anele.
Reiterating its commitment to due process, the Army emphasised that it would continue to operate within the law while safeguarding national security.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to the rule of law and will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure justice is served. We will continue to act within the ambits of the law in safeguarding our sovereignty,” Anele said.
