RULAAC raises alarm over disappearance of Content Creator Mark Justice Chidiebere

Michael Olumide

Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed serious concern over the reported disappearance of Nigerian content creator and social commentator, Mark Justice Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” whose whereabouts remain unknown since Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

In a statement signed by the Executive Director, RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, the organisation said Mr. Chidiebere reportedly left his residence in Abuja after receiving a phone call concerning an undisclosed meeting, but has not been seen or heard from since.

According to family members and close associates, his phones have remained switched off, and all attempts to reach him have been unsuccessful.

His wife, relatives, and friends have reportedly made frantic efforts to trace him, while concerned citizens and activists have also reached out to relevant security agencies, including lodging formal complaints with the police.

However, at the time of the statement, there has been no official confirmation regarding his whereabouts or whether he is in the custody of any security agency.

RULAAC described the situation as deeply troubling, warning that the absence of information and lack of transparency from authorities raises fears of possible enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention, or abduction.

The organisation further noted that Mr. Chidiebere had, shortly before his disappearance, been openly critical of security agencies, particularly on issues relating to alleged human rights violations and accountability. According to RULAAC, this context heightens concern that his disappearance could have broader implications for freedom of expression in Nigeria.

“Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy,” the group stated, warning that incidents involving the unexplained disappearance of outspoken citizens could create a chilling effect on civic engagement and public discourse.

RULAAC emphasised that under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) and international human rights obligations, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the State is legally bound to protect citizens’ rights to life, liberty, dignity, and security, as well as to promptly investigate cases of disappearance and disclose the whereabouts of individuals in custody.

The organisation stressed that enforced disappearance is strictly prohibited under international law and called on Nigerian authorities to act swiftly to clarify the situation.

Citing the circumstances surrounding Mr. Chidiebere’s disappearance—including his sudden departure for a meeting, loss of contact, and absence of official acknowledgment—RULAAC warned that the case reflects a pattern historically associated with unlawful detention and enforced disappearance.

The rights group therefore issued a series of demands to the Nigerian authorities, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the military, urging them to immediately disclose whether Mr. Chidiebere is in their custody.

It also called for the public release of information regarding his whereabouts, immediate access to legal representation and medical care if detained, and the initiation of a transparent and independent investigation into the incident.

Additionally, RULAAC urged authorities to ensure the protection of his family and associates from any form of intimidation or harassment, and to hold accountable any individuals or institutions found responsible.

“The continued silence of authorities in the face of this situation is unacceptable,” the statement read, warning that each passing hour without clarity increases risks to his safety and heightens public concern.

The organisation further cautioned that Nigeria must not allow a climate where citizens are allegedly made to disappear due to their views or criticism of public institutions, describing enforced disappearance as both a grave human rights violation and an assault on the rule of law.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the whereabouts of Mark Justice Chidiebere.
RULAAC concluded by urging immediate, transparent, and decisive action from authorities to locate him and ensure his safety.