Military Confirms Detention of Journalist Fisayo Soyombo, Alleges Link to Illegal Oil Bunkering Site
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the detention of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, claiming that he was apprehended during a raid at an alleged illegal oil bunkering site. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Army asserted that Soyombo was found at the location during an operation aimed at dismantling illicit oil activities.
The Army’s spokesperson stated that the raid was part of an ongoing campaign to curb economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region. According to the statement, several individuals were arrested at the site, including Soyombo, who the Army claims could not provide a satisfactory explanation for his presence there.
Soyombo, a well-known investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has a track record of exposing corruption and malpractice in both public and private sectors. His detention has raised concerns among media organizations and civil rights groups, with many questioning the Army’s narrative and calling for transparency in the investigation.
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the detention, describing it as an attempt to intimidate the press. “Journalists have a duty to report on critical issues affecting the nation. Detaining Mr. Soyombo under such circumstances undermines press freedom and democracy,” the NUJ said in a statement.
Meanwhile, supporters of Soyombo argue that his presence at the site may have been linked to a journalistic investigation rather than any illegal activity. The FIJ has also issued a statement demanding his immediate release and urging authorities to respect the rule of law.
As public outcry grows, legal experts and human rights organizations are calling on the Nigerian Army to provide concrete evidence to substantiate their claims. Many have warned against using national security operations as a pretext to stifle investigative journalism.
The case has reignited discussions about the safety of journalists in Nigeria and the need for stronger protections for press freedom in the country. Soyombo’s detention comes at a time when many journalists face increasing threats in their pursuit of truth and accountability.
