The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised a fresh storm over the arrest and remand of social media content creator popularly known as “Justice Crack,” describing the development as one that raises disturbing constitutional questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, and citizens’ right to information in Nigeria.
Arising from its National Executive Council meeting held in Awka, Anambra State, the association expressed concern over the prosecution of the content creator following a viral video that allegedly exposed poor feeding conditions of Nigerian soldiers, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for civic expression in a democratic society.
While acknowledging the need for military discipline and operational security, the NBA cautioned against what it described as the weaponization of arrest and detention against citizens expressing opinions or sharing information in the public interest. The association insisted that constitutional rights must only be limited within the strict boundaries of law and what is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society.
“The matter raises important constitutional questions regarding the balance between national security considerations and citizens’ rights,” the council stated, adding that any restriction of rights must comply fully with due process, legality, and proportionality.
NEC further warned against the use of arrest, detention, and criminal prosecution in ways capable of suppressing lawful expression or intimidating citizens, stressing that democratic governance cannot thrive where fear replaces accountability.
“The Council stressed that constitutional rights may only be restricted within limits reasonably justifiable in a democratic society and in strict compliance with the law,” the statement added.
The association therefore urged all authorities handling the Justice Crack case to ensure full compliance with constitutional safeguards while maintaining respect for due process, warning that deviation could further erode public trust in state institutions.
In a more explosive resolution, the NBA also called for an immediate and independent investigation into alleged gross human rights violations by the anti-kidnapping unit of the Nigeria Police Force in Imo State, popularly known as “Tiger Base.”
The association said it had received disturbing reports from credible human rights organisations alleging that operatives of the unit were involved in extrajudicial killings, torture, extortion, and arbitrary detention, allegations it described as too grave to be ignored.
According to the NBA, repeated calls for accountability over the activities of the unit have allegedly gone unanswered by relevant authorities, raising fears of impunity within the system.
The council warned that if these allegations are confirmed, they would amount to serious violations of constitutional rights including the right to life, dignity of human person, personal liberty, and fair hearing.
“The NBA reiterates that no law enforcement agency or security outfit operates above the law,” the statement declared, calling on the Nigeria Police Force and oversight institutions to launch a transparent investigation aimed at identifying and prosecuting any officer found culpable.
The association further emphasized that accountability and respect for human rights remain central to restoring public confidence in law enforcement agencies, warning that continued silence or inaction could deepen public distrust and worsen tensions between citizens and security operatives across the country.