The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to social media activist, Justice Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” in the sum of N5 million with one surety in like sum.
Delivering the ruling on Monday, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik imposed strict bail conditions, requiring the surety to be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15, with at least four years’ verifiable residence within the court’s jurisdiction, evidence of salary payments, and official confirmation from a head of department. The surety must also provide an affidavit of means, valid identification, and proof of pensionable employment, while the defendant is to submit his international passport to the court.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/253/2026, stems from Chidiebere’s arrest by the Nigerian Army in April after he allegedly posted viral videos criticising the feeding conditions of soldiers deployed to conflict areas.
He was subsequently arraigned by the Department of State Services on three counts bordering on cybercrime, breach of public peace, and felony. He pleaded not guilty, after which the Attorney General of the Federation took over prosecution from the DSS.
The bail ruling followed weeks of procedural delays, including disputes within the defendant’s legal team that previously stalled hearings and forced the withdrawal of an earlier bail application.
The court adjourned further proceedings as the trial continues, while reactions have trailed the case, with human rights groups condemning his arrest and alleging rights violations. The Nigerian Army, however, insists his arrest was linked to alleged incitement and conduct capable of undermining military discipline and national security.
