CDHR President, Debo Adeniran
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the arrest of Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” warning that the Nigerian Army’s action threatens free speech and signals a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism.
In a strongly worded statement on Friday, CDHR said the detention of the social media commentator over his engagement with soldiers on welfare matters amounts to a “troubling assault on constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.”
The group described the Army’s claim that such engagement amounts to “incitement” or “subversion” as “not only tenuous but deeply alarming.”
“This is a democracy, not a barracks,” CDHR said. “Citizens have the right to seek, receive, and disseminate information on matters of public interest without fear of intimidation or repression.”
The rights organisation expressed concern that instead of addressing soldiers’ welfare concerns, authorities opted to criminalise expression. “Such actions risk fostering a culture of silence and fear, which is antithetical to democratic governance and accountability,” CDHR stated.
Justice Crack, known for his outspoken videos on governance and military welfare, was reportedly arrested earlier this week. While details of the arrest remain unclear, CDHR said the action reflects a broader pattern of shrinking civic space.
“Nigeria must not relapse into an era where dissent is equated with disloyalty and where state power is deployed to stifle legitimate public discourse,” the group said. “The gains of democracy must be protected, not eroded through actions that echo authoritarian tendencies.”
CDHR laid out four demands: the immediate respect for Chidiebere’s rights to fair hearing and due process; full disclosure of specific allegations against him; an independent investigation into the welfare issues raised by soldiers; and an end to intimidation of citizens and military personnel who speak on matters of public concern.
The organisation reminded the state that “the rule of law remains supreme, and all institutions — including the military — are subject to constitutional limits.”
It urged Nigerians and the international community to “remain vigilant and to speak out against any actions that threaten our collective freedoms.”
The statement was signed by CDHR President and Secretary, Board of Trustees, Comrade Debo Adeniran, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Deacon Jeremiah Onyibe.
As of press time, the Nigerian Army had not issued a public response to CDHR’s statement.
