The Nigerian Army has issued a formal clarification regarding the arrest of social media influencer Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, following complaints by serving soldiers over welfare-related issues circulated online.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Army said its attention was drawn to social media posts in which some soldiers complained about feeding and other welfare matters through the blogger.
According to the Army, the issue triggered an investigation into a possible breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and alleged attempts to misinform the public.
Preliminary findings, the statement said, indicated that Justice Chidiebere engaged the soldiers in extensive discussions that went beyond welfare complaints and allegedly veered into incitement capable of creating discontent within the military system.
The Army cited a specific exchange it described as bordering on subversion, warning that civilians cultivating vulnerable personnel for such purposes pose serious risks to discipline and national security.
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As a result, both the blogger and the soldiers involved were taken in for investigation.
The Army clarified that while the soldiers remain in military custody, Justice Chidiebere has been handed over to the appropriate civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
In the statement, signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, reiterated the Army’s commitment to the rule of law and its willingness to work with relevant agencies to ensure due process.
The Army added that it would continue to operate strictly within legal boundaries while safeguarding national security and maintaining discipline within its ranks.
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