RULAAC demands release of activist Justice Crack, says public pressure prevented his ‘disappearance’
By Ishaya Ibrahim
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has condemned what it describes as unlawful abduction, detention, and ongoing prosecution of Mr. Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” by agents of the Nigerian military and the Department of State Services (DSS).
A statement signed by RULAAC’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, alleges that Chidiebere is being persecuted solely for exposing the ill-treatment and neglect of Nigerian soldiers on the frontlines despite courageously confronting better-armed terrorists.
“Instead of addressing these grave concerns, the authorities have chosen to silence the messenger,” RULAAC stated in the statement.
It said Chidiebere’s abduction constituted a blatant violation of his fundamental rights.
It raises alarm over the safety of the activist, adding that: “There are credible concerns that, but for the pressure mounted by citizens and civil society, he may have been disappeared.”
RULAAC stated that in an attempt at damage control, the Nigerian Army handed him over to the DSS rather than releasing him and apologizing for its unlawful actions.
The CSO’s statement reads in part: “RULAAC is deeply concerned that the DSS—rather than upholding the rule of law—has continued this chain of injustice by proceeding with his prosecution. This is not law enforcement; it is repression. It sends a chilling message that speaking out in the public interest will be punished.
“Today, all Lawyers for Justice were present in court as the case of Mr. Mark Chidiebere (“Justice Crack”) came up for hearing. The court adjourned the matter to 25th May. This development raises a fundamental question: on what basis are these clearly frivolous charges being sustained?
“This coordinated action between the military and the DSS represents a dangerous erosion of democratic norms, a direct assault on freedom of expression, and a violation of Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations.
RULAAC therefore demands:
1. The immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Mark Chidiebere (“Justice Crack”).
2. A full and independent investigation into his abduction and alleged torture.
3. Accountability for all officials involved in the violation of his rights.
4. An end to the harassment, intimidation, and persecution of whistleblowers and human rights defenders.
“We call on all Nigerians, civil society organizations, and defenders of democracy to rise in defense of justice and the rule of law. The continued detention and prosecution of Mr. Chidiebere must not be allowed to stand.
“The Nigerian Army must end this abuse of power and act in accordance with the law. Nigeria must not become a country where truth is criminalized and impunity rewarded.”
