DSS Arraigns Chidiebere Justice Mark for Cybercrime Charges

Chidiebere Justice Mark was arraigned by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of cybercrime. The allegations stem from a viral video he allegedly circulated, which contained false claims regarding the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel, particularly about their feeding conditions.

Mark faces three counts: the first count accuses him of knowingly disseminating false information via social media with the intent to provoke public discontent, punishable under Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 (as amended). The second count alleges that he published a video that incited fear and disturbed public peace, violating Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.

The third count involves an attempt to commit a felony by distributing content capable of causing public unrest, punishable under Section 509 of the Criminal Code Act. The presiding judge, Justice Joyc Abdulmalik, inquired whether a bail application had been filed, to which the defense counsel, Marshal Abubakar, responded negatively.

The case has been adjourned to May 25, 2026, with Mark remanded in DSS custody pending further proceedings.