The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has condemned the alleged torture, unlawful detention and destruction of property suffered by activist and social commentator popularly known as Justice Crack, describing the incident as a serious violation of human rights and a threat to freedom of expression.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC said it was “deeply saddened and outraged” by reports that the activist was allegedly abducted by personnel of the Nigerian Army and subjected to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.
According to the organisation, Justice Crack alleged that he was detained for three days following his reported abduction on April 28, 2026. He claimed that throughout the detention period, he was blindfolded and handcuffed, exposed to intense heat without access to water during the day, subjected to freezing conditions at night, and physically assaulted.
RULAAC further stated that the activist continues to suffer psychological trauma from the experience.
The group also raised concerns over the condition of a vehicle allegedly seized during the incident. According to Justice Crack, he discovered upon visiting a facility of the Department of State Services to retrieve the vehicle that it had been severely damaged while in custody.
Nwanguma described the allegations as disturbing and inconsistent with constitutional protections, the Anti-Torture Act and Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights law.
“Equally troubling is his assertion that his ordeal stemmed from his advocacy on behalf of military personnel, particularly his calls for better welfare, feeding, and care for rank-and-file soldiers,” the statement said.
RULAAC warned that the allegations raise concerns about what it described as a shrinking civic space and the tolerance of security institutions for criticism and dissent.
The organisation argued that the alleged damage to the activist’s vehicle compounded the injustice, noting that torture and malicious destruction of property are serious violations that should not go unaddressed.
“This matter transcends the suffering of one individual. It is about professionalism, accountability, respect for human dignity, adherence to the rule of law, and the standards expected of security institutions in a democratic society,” Nwanguma stated.
The group maintained that security institutions that respond to criticism with repression undermine public trust and weaken democratic values.
RULAAC called for an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction, detention and treatment of Justice Crack. It also demanded accountability for any officials found responsible for torture, unlawful detention, assault or destruction of property.
The organisation further urged authorities to provide full compensation and other remedies for the alleged violations, including the damage to the activist’s vehicle and the psychological harm he reportedly suffered.
RULAAC also called for stronger safeguards to prevent similar incidents involving security agencies and urged civil society organisations, lawyers, human rights defenders and citizens to support efforts aimed at securing justice and accountability.
“Nigeria cannot build strong institutions on a foundation of impunity. Justice for Justice Crack is justice for every Nigerian whose rights and dignity deserve protection,” the statement added.
