Justice Crack cybercrime trial begins as Federal Government opens amended charges and court reviews forensic evidence in Abuja case

The Federal Government opened its case at the Federal High Court in Abuja on an amended three-count charge of alleged cybercrime and felony against social media influencer Justice Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack, in a proceeding that marked a key step in the ongoing trial.

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Justice Chidiebere was arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him by the prosecution.

During the hearing, prosecution witness Oronto Douglas continued his evidence-in-chief, telling the court that audio and video recordings of the defendant’s interview had been downloaded onto a flash drive as part of the investigative process.

He also confirmed that a certificate of compliance was duly signed in relation to the digital evidence presented.

The case took a procedural turn when defence counsel applied for the continuation of previously granted bail conditions, a request which the prosecution did not oppose.

The court subsequently granted the application, allowing the defendant to remain on existing bail terms.

Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter until 28 September to enable further procedural steps, including an application to the court’s IT department for the review of forensic evidence already submitted by the prosecution.

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The adjournment will allow both parties to prepare for the electronic examination of the evidence, which is expected to play a central role in the next phase of the trial.