The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) is deeply saddened and outraged by reports that activist and social commentator, popularly known as Justice Crack, was subjected not only to torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment following his alleged unlawful abduction by personnel of the Nigerian Army, but also suffered the malicious destruction of his property.
According to his account, upon arriving at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility yesterday to retrieve the vehicle he was driving at the time of his abduction on April 28, 2026, he discovered that the vehicle had been severely damaged while in custody.
Justice Crack’s testimony paints a disturbing picture of abuse and disregard for the Constitution, the Anti-Torture Act, and Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights law. He alleges that he was held for three days, blindfolded and handcuffed throughout, exposed to intense heat without access to water during the day, subjected to freezing conditions at night, and physically assaulted. He further states that the psychological trauma of the experience continues to affect him long after his release on bail.
Equally troubling is his assertion that his ordeal stemmed from his advocacy on behalf of military personnel, particularly his calls for better welfare, feeding and care for rank-and-file soldiers. This raises serious concerns about the shrinking space for freedom of expression and the willingness of security institutions to tolerate criticism and dissent.
The subsequent damage to his vehicle while under the custody and control of state authorities compounds the injustice. Torture and malicious damage to property are serious violations that cannot and must not go unchallenged.
This matter transcends the suffering of one individual. It is about professionalism, accountability, respect for human dignity, adherence to the rule of law, and the standards expected of security institutions in a democratic society. A military institution that acts outside the law, disregards the rights of citizens, and responds to criticism with repression undermines public trust and weakens the very values it is mandated to defend.
RULAAC therefore calls for:
An independent, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction, detention and treatment of Justice Crack.
Accountability for all officials found responsible for acts of torture, unlawful detention, assault or destruction of property.
Full compensation and appropriate remedies for the violations suffered by Justice Crack, including damage to his vehicle and the psychological harm resulting from his ordeal.
Stronger safeguards to prevent the recurrence of such abuses by security agencies.
RULAAC stands ready to support all lawful efforts to secure justice and accountability in this matter. We also call on civil society organisations, human rights defenders, lawyers, professional associations and all citizens committed to justice and human dignity to join in demanding accountability.
Nigeria cannot build strong institutions on a foundation of impunity. Justice for Justice Crack is justice for every Nigerian whose rights and dignity deserve protection.
