Human rights activist and blogger Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” has sued the Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Attorney-General of the Federation for N5.3 billion over alleged torture and illegal detention.
The lawsuit was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja by his legal team, led by Prof. Sam Amadi, following his arrest by soldiers on April 28, 2026.
According to the court documents, the blogger was detained over alleged false publication and a breach of the Nigerian Army’s social media policy. He is asking the court to declare his arrest, detention, and alleged torture between April 28 and April 30, 2026, as unconstitutional and unlawful.
Justice Crack detailed the harsh conditions he faced during his time in military custody.
“During my detention, I was subjected to severe and degrading treatment,” he said in a statement. “I was handcuffed and blindfolded, kept under the sun during the day and in extremely cold conditions at night. I was also denied adequate access to water and basic necessities.”
The legal action also challenges the seizure of his vehicle, which he claims was taken without a court order and returned weeks later in a damaged condition. He is demanding N5 billion in exemplary damages for humiliation and hardship, alongside additional claims for the damage to his property and the violation of his fundamental rights.
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The blogger’s ordeal did not end with the military. He was later transferred to the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he spent approximately 21 days in detention before being granted bail in May 2026.
At the time of his arrest, supporters claimed he was targeted for publicly criticizing the military over the alleged extrajudicial killing of a civilian and raising concerns about the welfare of rank-and-file soldiers.
However, the Nigerian Army offered a different account of the events. The military claimed that preliminary investigations showed Justice Crack was attempting to create discontent among military personnel and that his conversations with soldiers “bordered on subversion.”
Despite the ongoing criminal proceedings, Justice Crack stressed that this fundamental rights suit is a necessary step to seek accountability.
“I have chosen to pursue this matter through the courts because I believe that every citizen, regardless of their views, position, or circumstances, is entitled to the protection of the law,” he stated.
As the legal battle unfolds, the case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tension between state power and the constitutional rights of citizens who dare to speak out.
Promise Idoko is Junior Reporter working with moderncrux He covers global politics and international affairs. Based in Nigeria,
