- ‘Why We Arrested Justice Crack’ – Army Speaks On Influencer Detention
- Probe alleges he incited discontent and violated military policy
- Influencer handed to civil authorities as investigation continues
The Nigerian Army has explained the circumstances surrounding the arrest of blogger and social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack.
In a statement issued at the weekend by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army said it began an investigation after a social media post by Chidiebere highlighted complaints from some soldiers regarding their feeding and welfare.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Army said the matter was initially probed for possible breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and alleged misinformation.
According to the statement, preliminary findings indicated that the influencer engaged the soldiers in conversations that allegedly sought to incite discontent within the ranks.
The statement read, “A situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security.”
The Army disclosed that Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers involved for further investigation.
It added that while the soldiers remain in military custody, the influencer has been handed over to relevant civil authorities for additional investigation and possible prosecution.
The statement read, “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.”
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, stating that it would continue to work with relevant agencies to ensure justice is served.
It added, “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.”
