Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday remanded a blogger and social media personality, Chidiebere Mark, known as “Justice Crack”, in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged cybercrime offences.

The remand order followed his arraignment on a three-count charge bordering on alleged false publication, breach of public peace and related offences.

The DSS accused the defendant of posting a viral video on his X handle, @JusticeCrack, alleging that soldiers of the Nigerian Army were poorly fed. The agency said the claims were false and capable of damaging the image and reputation of the military.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read in court.

Following the plea, counsel to the DSS, E. Orubo, asked the court to fix a trial date and remand the defendant pending determination of the case.

Defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, made an oral application for bail. The court declined the request and directed that a formal bail application be filed.

Justice Abdulmalik ordered that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the commencement of trial on May 25.