Court remands blogger ‘Justice Crack’ in DSS custody

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of blogger and social media personality, Chidiebere Mark, popularly known as Justice Crack, in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The remand followed his arraignment on a three-count charge related to alleged cybercrime.

According to the DSS, Mark is accused of making false claims about Nigerian Army soldiers, alleging they are poorly fed. The charges stem from a viral video posted on his X handle (@JusticeCrack), where he allegedly made defamatory statements that could damage the reputation of the Nigerian Army.

The charges also include a breach of public peace and felony. Mark pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him in open court.

Following his plea, the prosecution counsel, Mr. E. Orubo, applied for a trial date and requested that Mark remain in DSS custody until the case is resolved. In response, Mark’s defence lawyer, Mr. Marshall Abubakar, made an oral application for bail, which was rejected by the court. The court ruled that a formal bail application must be filed.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered that Mark remain in DSS custody until May 25, 2026, when his trial is scheduled to commence.