Activists Protest, Demand Release Of Blogger ‘Justice Crack’ Over Cybercrime Charges

Activist Peter Akah, on Monday, led a protest at the Federal High Court in Abuja, demanding the release of blogger and social media personality Chidiebere Mark, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” who is currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a video on his X handle and circulating online, Akah was seen calling on the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to intervene and secure the blogger’s release.

“Where is the Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi? We want Justice Crack now. Nigerians, we are at the Ministry of Justice. The Nigerian Army wants to imprison Justice Crack—it is not possible. Look at the charges; they are frivolous. They said he circulated a video talking about your feeding,” Akah declared, adding that the case has been adjourned to May 25.

The protesters further chanted: “Nigerian Army, free Justice Crack. Free Justice Crack now. He is not a criminal.”

Justice Crack was remanded following his arraignment on a three-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime. The DSS accused him of making false claims about soldiers in the Nigerian Army, particularly alleging that they were poorly fed.

According to the charge, he posted a viral video on his X handle (@JusticeCrack) in which he allegedly made statements capable of damaging the Army’s reputation. The allegations also include breach of public peace and a felony offence.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to all charges when they were read in open court.

Following his plea, the prosecution counsel, E. Orubo, requested a trial date and urged the court to remand him in custody pending the determination of the case.

In response, defence counsel Marshal Abubakar made an oral application for bail, but the court declined the request, directing that a formal bail application be filed instead.