The Nigerian Army says it has arrested Justice Mark Chidiebere, a social media influencer, alongside some personnel over an alleged attempt to incite soldiers and breach of military social media policy.
Justice was declared missing days after posting viral videos alleging poor feeding conditions for troops battling Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
Justice, popularly known by his social media handle @justicecrack, was reportedly abducted on Tuesday shortly after dropping his kindergarten-aged daughter at school.
His wife, Theresa, recounted the circumstances surrounding his disappearance in an emotional interview with journalists.
Theresa explained that initial inquiries led to conflicting accounts about her husband’s whereabouts. “One of his friends told me he was in a meeting that took longer than expected,” she said.
However, speaking in a statement issued on May 2, 2026, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said its attention was drawn to complaints by some soldiers concerning feeding and welfare, which were shared on social media by the blogger.
According to the statement, the matter is currently under investigation for a possible breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy, as well as an attempt to misinform the public
“While the matter is being investigated for breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public, preliminary report reveals that the soldiers discussed wide range of issues with Justice Chidiebere who seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system,” the statement reads.
“An example was a chat bothering on subversion which Chidiebere had with 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.”
Anele said Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers for investigation.
She added that while the soldiers remain in military custody, Chidiebere has been handed over to the relevant civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to the rule of law and will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure justice is served. We will continue to act within the ambits of the law in safeguarding our sovereignty,” she said.
