The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of social media critic and blogger, Justice Mark Chidiebere, populary known as Justice Crack.
This was contained in a statement issued on May 2, 2026, signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations.
NPO reports that prior to the official statement, friends and activists had reported Justice Crack missing since April 28, 2026, with his vehicle spotted at a military facility, prompting urgent calls for his release.
According to the army, the development followed complaints raised by some soldiers over welfare-related issues, including feeding, which were later amplified on social media by the blogger.
According to the military, preliminary findings indicate that during interactions with the soldiers, Chidiebere allegedly engaged in conversations that went beyond welfare advocacy and were interpreted as attempts to encourage disaffection within the ranks.
The Army further stated that some of the exchanges under review included discussions it described as bordering on subversion, raising concerns about attempts to influence military personnel in ways that could undermine discipline and national security.
The army also stressed that while legitimate concerns about welfare remain important, any action perceived as encouraging instability within the armed forces would be treated as a serious security matter.
Following his arrest alongside the soldiers involved in the discussions, Chidiebere has subsequently been handed over to civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The soldiers, meanwhile, remain in military custody as inquiries continue.