Nigerian Army Confirms Arrest of Investigative Journalist Fisayo Soyombo Amid Outcry

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest and detention of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), at an illegal oil bunkering site in Port Harcourt. This confirmation comes after Soyombo had been held in Army custody for three days, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for his release from various stakeholders, including media organisations and human rights activists.

Details of the Arrest

In a statement released on November 29, 2024, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of the 6th Division Army Public Relations, explained that Soyombo’s arrest was part of a broader operation targeting a notorious gang involved in oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the region. The operation was conducted following intelligence reports about illegal activities at the site where Soyombo was apprehended.

Danjuma stated, “We arrested Mr. Fisayo Soyombo because he was found at the scene of an illegal oil bunkering operation.” He emphasised that the journalist’s detention is directly linked to ongoing efforts to combat oil theft, asserting that any claims suggesting otherwise are unfounded. The Army has indicated that preliminary investigations are underway to assess Soyombo’s level of involvement in the alleged illegal activities.

Public Reaction and Concerns

The arrest has sparked significant backlash from civil society groups, journalists, and members of the public who view it as an infringement on press freedom. The FIJ condemned the detention, asserting that “journalism is not a crime” and calling for Soyombo’s immediate release. They expressed concern over the seizure of his electronic devices and the potential destruction of evidence critical to his work.

Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, have labelled Soyombo’s detention as “arbitrary and unlawful,” urging authorities to release him without delay. The incident has drawn attention to the precarious situation faced by journalists in Nigeria, where press freedom is increasingly under threat.

Historical Context

Fisayo Soyombo is known for his fearless investigative reporting, which has exposed corruption and systemic failures within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. His previous undercover work has included spending time in police custody and prison to highlight issues within these institutions. This history of investigative journalism has made him a target for state authorities, raising alarms about his safety following his latest arrest.

The incident adds to a troubling trend in Nigeria, where journalists often face harassment, intimidation, and detention for their work. According to Reporters Without Borders, Nigeria ranks poorly on global press freedom indices, highlighting the dangers faced by media professionals in the country.