Army explains arrest of blogger over alleged incitement

The Nigerian Army has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of a blogger and social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, over allegations linked to his interactions with serving soldiers.

In a statement issued on 2 May 2026, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the arrest followed complaints from some personnel regarding issues of feeding and welfare, which were later shared on social media by the influencer.

According to the Army, the matter is under investigation for a possible breach of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy, as well as an attempt to misinform the public.

Preliminary findings, the statement said, indicate that the soldiers involved engaged the blogger in discussions covering a range of internal concerns. It further alleged that the influencer may have encouraged conversations capable of creating discontent within the ranks.

“One of the exchanges under review borders on subversive conduct,” the statement noted, adding that such interactions between civilians and military personnel could have implications for discipline and national security.

The Army warned that engagements which influence serving personnel towards actions deemed subversive pose risks to the operational integrity of the armed forces.

It confirmed that Mr Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers involved. While the military personnel remain in custody, the blogger has been handed over to relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to operating within the law, stating that all actions taken in the case were in line with its mandate to safeguard national security.

There has been no public response from Mr Chidiebere or his representatives at the time of reporting.

The case has raised broader questions about the limits of online engagement between civilians and members of the armed forces, particularly in relation to freedom of expression and military discipline.

Source: The Nation Newspaper