Amanze Chinonye
The Federal Government on Monday commenced prosecution in the cybercrime case against social media influencer Justice Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Prime Business Africa reports.
Chidiebere was arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on an amended three-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime and felony offences.
The influencer pleaded not guilty to all charges filed against him.
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Following the plea, the prosecution opened its case and presented its first witness, Oronto Douglas, who continued his evidence-in-chief before the court.
Douglas told the court that audio and video recordings obtained during the defendant’s interview were downloaded onto a flash drive as part of the investigation process.
He further stated that he signed a certificate of compliance relating to the electronic evidence presented before the court.
During proceedings, counsel to the defendant urged the court to allow the bail conditions earlier granted to his client to subsist pending the determination of the case. The prosecution did not oppose the application.
Justice Abdulmalik subsequently upheld the existing bail conditions and adjourned the matter until Sept. 28 for continuation of hearing.
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The court also noted that the prosecution counsel, who had earlier applied to the Deputy Chief Registrar, would make a further application to the Head of the court’s Information Technology Department for the viewing of forensic evidence connected to the matter.
Following the hearing, Justice Crack reacted to the proceedings in a statement shared on social media, where he expressed appreciation to supporters and reiterated his commitment to the judicial process.
“Today, the court proceedings in my case continued, and while the legal process is still ongoing, I remain hopeful and committed to due process,” he wrote.
The influencer thanked Nigerians who had supported him through prayers, protests and online advocacy, saying their solidarity strengthened his belief in justice and civic engagement.
“What started as a difficult and painful experience has now become a stronger motivation for me to continue believing in a better Nigeria a country where justice, fairness, and freedom of expression truly exist for everyone,” he added.
He also urged Nigerians not to relent in peacefully demanding accountability, justice and good governance.
“Someday, the child of nobody will truly become somebody without knowing anybody. Justice can never be cracked,” the statement read.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
