Odita Sunday 
‘Army Kidnapped Activist, Not Arrest’ — HURIWA Accuses Military of Lawlessness, Demands Release
By Emmanuel Onwubiko
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has strongly condemned the Nigerian Army over the detention of a social media activist, Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” describing the action as unlawful and a violation of constitutional provisions.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group alleged that the activist was abducted by military personnel rather than lawfully arrested, warning that such actions could undermine democratic governance.
HURIWA rejected the Army’s explanation for the detention, describing it as “an afterthought justification,” and insisted that the circumstances surrounding the incident raise serious concerns about adherence to due process.
“Let Nigerians be clear: this was not an arrest. This was a kidnapping by men in uniform,” Onwubiko said.
The rights group questioned the legal basis for the Army’s involvement in the matter, arguing that issues concerning civilians should be handled by appropriate law enforcement agencies.
“Why was a civilian seized by soldiers instead of being invited by lawful civil authorities? What specific law authorises the Army to pick up citizens on unclear grounds?” the group queried.
HURIWA warned that such actions blur the line between lawful enforcement and illegality, potentially eroding public confidence in state institutions.
The group further argued that the alleged offence attributed to the activist—comments on troop welfare—falls within the realm of civic engagement and freedom of expression.
“If the information is false, respond with facts—not force. Bullets and abductions are not tools of public communication,” Onwubiko stated.
While acknowledging the importance of national security, HURIWA cautioned against using it as justification for actions that may infringe on civil liberties.
“The invocation of national security must not become a blanket excuse for undermining constitutional rights,” the statement added.
The organisation issued a set of demands, including the immediate release of the activist, disclosure of the legal grounds for his detention, and accountability for those involved.
HURIWA also called for a clear commitment from the military to respect the boundaries between civil authority and military operations.
“Today it is one activist. Tomorrow it could be any Nigerian. This is how democracies are weakened—when the rule of law is replaced by the rule of force,” Onwubiko said.
The group added that it would pursue legal and civic measures to address what it described as a growing culture of impunity.
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