Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has been released after three days in Nigerian Army detention amid allegations of illegal oil bunkering.
Investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Fisayo Soyombo, has been released after three days in detention by the Nigerian Army.
His detention had drawn significant attention and concern, particularly regarding press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
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Soyombo was apprehended in Port Harcourt earlier in the week on allegations of involvement in illegal oil bunkering. The Nigerian Army claimed he was detained at a bunkering site, a claim FIJ has firmly refuted.
The news of Soyombo’s detention stirred public outcry, with media organisations and civil society groups calling for his release.
The FIJ insisted that the journalist’s presence at the site was part of his fieldwork, emphasising his commitment to investigative reporting.
FIJ announced Soyombo’s release via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday evening. The organisation expressed gratitude for the widespread media and public support during the ordeal.
“We can confirm that our founder @fisayosoyombo has now been released by @HQNigerianArmy, following the intense media campaign you all mounted,” the post read.
However, FIJ criticised the Army’s statement, which suggested Soyombo’s involvement in illegal oil bunkering.
“FIJ acknowledges the Nigerian Army’s deliberate mischaracterisation to suggest an involvement in ‘illegal oil bunkering.’ FIJ will also address this statement appropriately,” the organisation added.
While celebrating Soyombo’s release, FIJ expressed concerns about his safety following the detention. “Our immediate concern is regarding the safety of Fisayo Soyombo in view of extensive information sharing with the Army on his fieldwork during the period of his detention.
We are assessing the situation and hoping that his safety will not be jeopardised after release,” FIJ stated.
Soyombo’s detention has raised questions about the risks faced by journalists in Nigeria, particularly those involved in exposing corruption and illicit activities.
The incident underscores the tension between investigative journalism and state authorities in a country where press freedom remains a contentious issue.
As FIJ continues to advocate for Soyombo’s safety and clarifies the circumstances of his detention, the case has become a focal point for discussions on the importance of safeguarding journalists and upholding their rights to report without fear of persecution.
