The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of social media influencer Justice Mark Chidiebere, widely known as Justice Crack, over a series of conversations with soldiers. The arrest followed an investigation into a social media post where Chidiebere shared complaints from soldiers about feeding and welfare conditions. According to a statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the interactions included discussions that allegedly encouraged discontent and subversion within the military.
Preliminary findings indicated Chidiebere engaged in a chat with soldiers that touched on subversive actions, raising concerns about civilian interference in military affairs. The Army stated such actions pose serious risks to discipline and national security. Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers involved and is now in the custody of civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution. The soldiers remain in military custody.
The Army emphasized it is acting within the confines of the law and reaffirmed its commitment to due process. It said it will continue working with relevant agencies to ensure justice is served. The full statement cited the need to safeguard national sovereignty and maintain order within the armed forces.
The Army claims Justice Crack incited subversion through chats with soldiers, yet provides no evidence beyond alleging a single conversation topic. If soldiers felt mistreated enough to voice welfare complaints, the focus on silencing the messenger may deepen distrust. Nigerians now see a pattern where criticism, even when relayed by civilians, is met with arrest rather than reform. This risks framing legitimate grievances as threats instead of addressing their root causes.
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