‘Nigeria Happened to Me’ — Justice Crack decries dilapidated state of his vehicle after release by Nigerian Army

Popular social commentator and activist Justice Crack has spoken out about the physical, emotional, and financial toll of his recent detention, expressing anguish over the condition of his vehicle after it was returned by the Nigerian Army.

The activist, who was arrested in April following a video in which he criticised the alleged quality of food provided to soldiers fighting insurgency, claimed his car was severely damaged while in military custody.

Justice Crack was detained on April 28, 2026, after security operatives picked him up over comments he made regarding the welfare of troops. He was later granted bail and released in May.

However, weeks after regaining his freedom, the social critic says the experience continues to haunt him.

‘I Bought the Car Days Before My Arrest’

In a lengthy statement shared on social media, Justice Crack disclosed that he had only recently acquired the vehicle before his arrest.

According to him, he purchased the car on April 23 through a loan arrangement after trading in his previous vehicle, which had become difficult and expensive to maintain.

He revealed that despite making the purchase, he still had an outstanding debt of ₦4.5 million to settle on the vehicle.

“I bought the car on loan after exchanging my former vehicle. I still have a balance of ₦4.5 million left to pay,” he stated.

The activist said he was devastated to discover that the car had suffered extensive damage during the period it remained in military custody.

Alleges Harsh Treatment in Detention

Beyond the condition of his vehicle, Justice Crack also recounted what he described as a traumatic experience during his detention.

He alleged that he was taken away by military personnel who initially presented themselves as officials of the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to him, he spent three days in custody under difficult conditions that left lasting psychological scars.

The activist claimed he was blindfolded and handcuffed throughout the detention period, while also being subjected to harsh treatment.

He alleged that he was left under intense sunlight for several hours during the day without access to drinking water despite repeatedly pleading for assistance.

“At different times, I begged for water but no one responded,” he said.

Justice Crack further claimed that he was kept in an extremely cold room at night and endured periods of isolation and fear.

He also alleged that unidentified individuals occasionally slapped him during his detention.

Trauma Persists After Release

Despite regaining his freedom, the social commentator said the emotional impact of the experience remains with him.

He disclosed that he continues to struggle with sleep and frequently relives memories of his time in custody.

“Even after I was granted bail, the trauma never really ended. I still wake up suddenly at night and find it difficult to sleep,” he stated.

According to him, the damage to his vehicle has only deepened his frustration and sadness over the entire ordeal.

‘My Only Crime Was Speaking Up’

Justice Crack maintained that his criticism of the military was motivated by concern for the welfare of soldiers serving on the frontlines.

He insisted that his intention was to advocate for better treatment and improved welfare for military personnel risking their lives to defend the country.

“My only offence was speaking up and asking that soldiers who are defending this country should be properly fed and cared for,” he said.

Reflecting on the experience, the activist lamented what he described as the harsh realities of life in Nigeria.

“Today, I can truly say that Nigeria happened to me,” he wrote.

Vows Not to Be Silenced

Despite the challenges he says he has faced, Justice Crack insisted that he remains committed to speaking out on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.

Ending his statement on a defiant note, he declared that adversity would not silence him.

“Whatever has happened, one thing remains certain: justice can never be cracked,” he stated.

The Nigerian Army has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in his latest statement.