Dare Babalola
Tension erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday as a group of youths staged a protest over the continued detention of blogger and social media personality, Justice Crack.
The protest began shortly after operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, attempted to escort the blogger out of the court premises following his arraignment.
In a dramatic scene, the protesters formed a human barricade around the security operatives, chanting solidarity songs and repeatedly demanding the immediate release of the influencer.
The crowd shouted, “Free Justice Crack,” while describing his detention as unfair and a violation of his rights.
Some protesters also called on the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation to intervene in the matter.
“We want to see the minister. Call the minister and let him come out. Protest is a fundamental human right,” some of the demonstrators were heard shouting.
The protesters further urged residents of Abuja and other Nigerians to gather at the Ministry of Justice in solidarity with the detained blogger.
One of the demonstrators claimed that Justice Crack’s next court appearance had been fixed for May 26, meaning he could remain in custody for several more weeks.
“Everybody please come to the Ministry of Justice. We need Nigerians to stand with us. They said his next court date is May 26, which means he may stay there for one month,” the protester said.
Several activists and influencers were present at the scene, including former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore, as well as social commentator Peter Akah.
They joined the crowd in calling for the blogger’s release as tensions remained high around the court complex.
