The Nigerian Army has explained the circumstances surrounding the arrest of popular blogger and social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, also known as Justice Crack.
In an official statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, and released at the weekend, the Army said its attention was drawn to a social media post by Chidiebere where he highlighted complaints made by some soldiers regarding their feeding and general welfare.
While investigating the matter for possible breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and spreading of misinformation, the Army said preliminary findings revealed that Chidiebere had engaged the soldiers in discussions that allegedly sought to incite discontent and subversion within the ranks.
“A situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security,” the statement read.
The Army disclosed that Justice Chidiebere was arrested alongside the concerned soldiers for further investigation. While the soldiers remain in military custody, Chidiebere has been handed over to the relevant civil authorities for additional investigation and possible prosecution.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to the rule of law and assured that it 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,” the statement added.
The full statement reads:
“The attention of the Nigerian Army was drawn to the complaint made by some soldiers regarding their feeding and other matters relating to their welfare as posted on social media by a blogger/social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere (Justice Crack).
“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.
“An example was a chat bothering on subversion which Chidiebere had with the soldiers. 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.
“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.
