ABUJA, NIGERIA: The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to blogger and activist Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” in the sum of ₦5 million with one surety in like sum. Mark is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged cybercrime offenses connected to a viral video concerning the Nigerian Army.

Bail Conditions Established by the Court

Delivering the ruling on the defendant's bail application, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik outlined several stringent conditions that the surety must meet to secure Mark's release:

• Residential Requirements: The surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and have a verified, fixed residential address maintained for at least four years.

• Proof of Property: The surety must submit proof of residence, such as a tenancy agreement or a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), to the court registry.

• Employment Status: The surety must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15. Required documentation includes evidence of at least three months of recent salary payments, a letter of authentication from their immediate head of department, and proof of pensionable employment.

• Additional Verifications: The surety must depose to an affidavit of means and submit a recent passport photograph.

Furthermore, Justice Abdulmalik ordered the defendant to surrender his international passport to the court registry. Following the ruling, the matter was adjourned for the continuation of the trial.

Defense Calls for Withdrawal of Charges

The court's decision follows public appeals from the defense counsel regarding the handling of the case. Human rights law firm Marshal Attorneys recently petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, requesting the formal withdrawal of the three-count charge (Charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/253/2026).

In a letter dated May 5, 2026, the firm urged the Federal Government to discontinue the prosecution, characterizing the case as a violation of due process and constitutional rights. The defense alleged that Mark was unlawfully detained by military intelligence officers on April 28, 2026, after voluntarily honoring an invitation for a meeting.