Tension flared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday as a group of youths staged a protest over the continued detention of blogger Justice Crack.
The situation escalated when operatives of the Department of State Services attempted to escort the influencer out of the courtroom after his arraignment.
In response, protesters formed a human barricade around the security operatives, chanting “Free Justice Crack” and insisting on his immediate release. The youths described his detention as unjust and a violation of his rights.
The demonstrators also called out to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, demanding his intervention in the matter.
“We want to see the minister! Call the minister! Let him come out! Protest is a fundamental human right!” some of them shouted within the court premises.
Others urged Nigerians residing in Abuja to mobilise and join them at the Ministry of Justice, expressing concern that Justice Crack would remain in custody until his next court date scheduled for May 26.
“Everybody please come to the Ministry of Justice, we need you Nigerians. They said Justice’s next court date is May 26, which means he will remain there for one month. Please help us and come out if you’re in Abuja,” one protester said.
Activists and public figures, including Omoyele Sowore and Peter Akah, were among those present, lending their voices to the call for the blogger’s release.
Security operatives eventually maintained control of the situation, but the protest underscored growing public concern over the case and the broader issue of freedom of expression.
