The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of popular Nigerian blogger and social media influencer Chidiebere Mark, known as Justice Crack, in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), following his arraignment on charges of cybercrime. The court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, made the decision on Monday after the defendant pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge. The charges stem from a viral video posted on his 𝕏 handle (@JusticeCrack), where he allegedly made false claims about Nigerian Army soldiers being poorly fed, a statement the DSS says was capable of damaging the military’s reputation.
The prosecution, led by Mr. E. Orubo, argued that the content of the video amounted to a breach of public peace and constituted a felony under relevant cybercrime laws. They urged the court to remand Justice Crack in custody until the trial concludes, citing concerns over potential interference with the investigation or public order. In response, the defence lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, made an oral application for bail, but the court rejected it, stating that a formal bail application must be filed in writing before any consideration can be given.
Justice Abdulmalik subsequently ordered that Justice Crack remain in DSS custody until May 25, the date set for the commencement of his trial. The court’s decision comes amid heightened scrutiny over social media content that allegedly undermines national institutions. The Nigerian Army had earlier confirmed Justice Crack’s arrest following complaints from soldiers who accused him of inciting discontent and spreading misinformation about their welfare. Preliminary findings from the Army indicated that the influencer had engaged in discussions with soldiers, possibly encouraging them to express grievances publicly in a manner that could destabilize military morale.
The case has drawn attention to the growing tension between digital freedom and national security in Nigeria, particularly as social media platforms become key spaces for public discourse. The DSS maintains that false narratives about the armed forces can erode public trust and threaten national cohesion. As the trial date approaches, legal experts and digital rights advocates are expected to closely monitor the proceedings, given the implications for free speech and accountability in the digital age.
This development underscores the increasing role of cybercrime laws in regulating online expression in Nigeria. The outcome of Justice Crack’s case may set a precedent for how similar cases involving public figures and national institutions are handled in the future.
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