Abuja, FCT, NIGERIA — The Nigerian Army has issued a formal clarification regarding the arrest of Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, a social media influencer and blogger.
In a press statement made available to Okay News on Saturday, May 2, 2026, by Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the military confirmed that Chidiebere has been handed over to civil authorities following allegations of inciting soldiers and attempting to foster discontent within the Armed Forces.
The controversy began when Justice Crack posted a viral report on social media featuring complaints from soldiers regarding their feeding and overall welfare. While the Army acknowledged the welfare concerns are being looked into, a preliminary investigation suggested that Chidiebere’s interactions with the personnel went beyond advocacy. The military alleged that “Justice Crack” engaged in chats bordering on subversion, a move described as a direct threat to national security and military discipline. The influencer is now being investigated for a breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, the first female spokesperson in the history of the Nigerian Army, emphasized that while civilians are free to engage with the military, cultivating personnel for subversive acts has “far-reaching implications.” The soldiers involved in the discussions are currently in military custody for internal disciplinary proceedings, while the transfer of Chidiebere to civil authorities ensures he will face the standard judicial process.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and promised that the welfare of its personnel remains a priority, even as it maintains a zero-tolerance stance on actions that undermine the chain of command.
