Fisayo Soyombo, investigative journalist and founder of FIJ, was arrested by the Nigerian Army at an illegal oil bunkering site in Rivers State. The Army claims his presence is under investigation, while FIJ denies wrongdoing.
The Nigerian Army has clarified the arrest of Fisayo Soyombo, investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). Soyombo was detained at an illegal oil bunkering site in Rivers State, following an operation by the 6 Division of the Army targeting a notorious gang of oil thieves.
According to the Army’s Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations, Danjuma Danjuma, troops acted on intelligence revealing illicit oil theft activities in the region. During the operation, several suspects were apprehended, including Soyombo. The Army emphasized that Soyombo’s arrest was tied to ongoing investigations into the illegal activities, adding that his presence at the scene required scrutiny to determine his involvement.
The FIJ had earlier reported Soyombo's arrest and claimed he had been detained for three days. The news sparked widespread calls for his release and raised concerns about press freedom. However, the Army urged media outlets to verify facts before publicizing information, stating that their commitment to combating oil theft remains steadfast.
Soyombo is known for exposing corruption, including allegations against the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Earlier this month, he released videos highlighting customs officials’ alleged complicity in smuggling operations.
The Army reaffirmed its dedication to curbing criminal activities in the oil sector, expressing hope that its efforts would enhance oil and gas production in Nigeria. Investigations into the suspects, including Soyombo, are ongoing to determine their roles in the illegal operations.
