DSS arraigns Chidiebere Mark over cybercrime, sets May 25 for trial

The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arraigned Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as Justice Crack, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a three-count charge bordering on cybercrime and alleged incitement against the military.

Mark, who was reportedly arrested by the Nigerian Army over the weekend, is accused of circulating false information via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, @JusticeCrack, concerning alleged inadequate feeding of Nigerian Army personnel.

According to the first count, the defendant allegedly published information he knew to be false with the intention of causing annoyance, ill will, and public discord, an offence punishable under Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended).

In the second charge, the DSS accused him of disseminating a viral video and related statements about the Nigerian Army that triggered widespread negative reactions and could lead to fear and a breach of public peace, contrary to Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.

The third count alleges an attempt to commit a felony by publishing what authorities described as derogatory content capable of inciting unrest, an offence punishable under Section 509 of the Criminal Code Act.

After hearing the charges, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case to May 25, 2026, for trial and possible consideration of a bail application.

The court also ordered that the defendant be remanded in DSS custody pending the next hearing.