The Nigerian Army said it has arrested a social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, along with some personnel over an alleged attempt to incite soldiers and breach military social media policy.
Appolonia Anele, acting director of army public relations, in a statement said that Chidiebere, also known as “Justice Crack”, shared complaints by some soldiers about their feeding and welfare on social media. “While the matter is being investigated for breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public, preliminary reports reveal that the soldiers discussed a wide range of issues with Justice Chidiebere, who seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system,” the statement said.
Anele added that one of the exchanges included a conversation “bordering on subversion” between Chidiebere and the soldiers. “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,” she said.
The army said Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers as part of an ongoing investigation. While the soldiers remain in military custody, Chidiebere has been handed over to relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
She stated that the Nigerian Army remains committed to the rule of law and will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure justice is served.