The Nigerian Army has explained why it arrested social media influencer Justice Mark Chidiebere, known as Justice Crack, saying he was picked up following complaints by soldiers over welfare issues and for allegedly inciting them to create discontent.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, said in a statement on Saturday that Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers involved in the matter.
“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),” the army said.
The army said the matter is being investigated for “breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public.”
According to preliminary reports, the soldiers discussed a “wide range of issues” with Chidiebere, who “seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system.”
The army cited “a chat bothering on subversion which Chidiebere had with the soldiers” as an example.

“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,” the army said.
While the soldiers remain in army custody, Chidiebere has been “handed over to the relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.”
The Nigerian Army said it 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,” it added.
CLARIFICATION ON THE ARREST OF JUSTICE MARK CHIDIEBERE (JUSTICE CRACK)
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… pic.twitter.com/fYtmihUH0k
— Nigerian Army (@HQNigerianArmy) May 2, 2026
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