Army investigates soldiers’ welfare complaints, arrests influencer for alleged subversion

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into complaints from soldiers about their feeding and welfare, as raised on social media by blogger Justice Mark Chidiebere, known as Justice Crack.

In a statement released on Saturday, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, said, “The attention of the Nigerian Army was drawn to the complaint made by some soldiers regarding their feeding and other matters relating to their welfare as posted on social media by a blogger/social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere (Justice Crack).”

Preliminary findings indicate the soldiers discussed a “wide range of issues” with Chidiebere, who allegedly incited discontent, including chats “bothering on subversion.”

Colonel Anele emphasised the risks, stating, “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.”

As a result, Chidiebere was detained by the Army alongside the soldiers.

While the soldiers remain in military custody pending a probe into breaches of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and public misinformation, the influencer has been handed over to civil authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to legal processes, with Colonel Anele adding, “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.”