The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, stating that he was apprehended alongside others during a raid on an illegal oil bunkering site in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a statement provided to SaharaReporters, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Division, clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
“The Headquarters, 6 Division, Nigerian Army has noted with utmost concern an allegation making the rounds on the social media 29 November 2024. In the publication, it was alleged that the Nigerian Army detained an investigative journalist in Port Harcourt.
“You would recall that the Division has scaled up its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations with huge operational successes recorded. Only recently, intelligence revealed the existence of a notorious gang of oil thieves noted for bursting pipelines and illegal connections for oil theft in the region. In a deliberate operation conducted, troops trailed the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. In a subsequent operation carried out, troops swooped on the site, where arrests were made, including one Fisayo Soyombo who was also arrested at the scene.
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“The suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigation to ascertain their level of involvement or otherwise. Therefore, his arrest is not unconnected with the activities of these oil thieves in the region.”
Meanwhile, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) on Friday morning called for Soyombo’s immediate release, suggesting his detention may be linked to his investigative work exposing corruption and smuggling operations allegedly facilitated by the Nigerian Customs Service.
Soyombo is known for his fearless reporting on corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations. His work has frequently made him a target of threats and harassment.
Earlier this month, he released footage accusing customs officials of collaborating with a smuggler to illegally transport cars and bags of rice into the country.
The journalist had alleged that the operation was planned for November 10, 2024. His arrest has sparked fresh concerns about press freedom in Nigeria, with advocates urging the authorities to ensure his safety and uphold his rights as an investigative journalist.
(SaharaReporters)
