The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a Nigerian blogger and activist, Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of incitement.
According to sources, immediately after the arraignment on Monday, the activist was taken back into DSS custody, raising fresh concerns about his continued detention.
The courtroom was reportedly packed with security operatives and observers, while journalists were prevented from gaining access to cover the proceedings.
Activists and some of the Take It Back Movement staged a protest outside the court, demanding the immediate release of the blogger.
The protesters chanted solidarity songs and called on authorities to free him.
“Release Justice Crack! He is innocent!” the protesters shouted.
The arraignment marks the latest development in the controversial case involving the activist, who was earlier handed over to the DSS by the Nigerian Army amid allegations of torture.
Earlier reports indicated that that the Army transferred him to the secret police amid widespread outrage over claims that he was chained to a tree under the sun for over 72 hours while in military custody.
Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, had accused security agencies of attempting to legitimise what he described as unlawful detention and abuse.
He noted that “they want to take him to court instead of releasing him unconditionally,” adding, “We reject this and tomorrow all activists must resume at the DSS Office to demand @Justice_Crack is released unconditionally!”
According to family members, Justice Crack’s ordeal began after he criticised the military over the alleged extrajudicial killing of a civilian and spoke about poor welfare conditions faced by soldiers.
In a viral video, a relative described his detention in emotional terms.
“He was tied to a tree and left outside for 72 hours… What’s his crime? He spoke for oppressed Nigerians,” the relative said.
However, the Nigerian Army had defended its actions, accusing the blogger of attempting to incite soldiers and undermine military authority.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army claimed that the activist was involved in discussions that could create discontent within the ranks.
“Preliminary report reveals 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 read.
The Army further alleged that his actions had “far-reaching implications on discipline and national security.”
SAHARA REPORTERS
