Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been released from detention by the Nigerian Army, following widespread media advocacy and public outcry. The development was confirmed in a statement released by FIJ via their X page which also addressed the Army’s claims linking Soyombo to alleged illegal activities.
“We can confirm that our founder, @fisayosoyombo, has now been released by @HQNigerianArmy, following the intense media campaign you all mounted,” FIJ saidSoyombo’s detention had sparked a wave of criticism, with journalists, human rights groups, and civic organisations condemning the action as an attack on press freedom.
According to the military, Soyombo was allegedly linked to “illegal oil bunkering” activities, a claim FIJ has described as a “deliberate mischaracterisation”.
“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 statedAlthough relieved at Soyombo’s release, FIJ expressed apprehension over his safety, citing the extensive information he shared with the Army during his 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,” the statement added.
Chioma Kalu
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