Fisayo Soyombo, renowned investigative journalist, has reportedly been detained by the Nigerian Army. Details surrounding his detention remain unclear, sparking widespread concern.
Fisayo Soyombo, a respected investigative journalist and the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has allegedly been detained by the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The FIJ announced his detention on Friday via its official account on X (formerly known as Twitter), @fijnigeria, stating that Soyombo has been in custody for the last three days.
Soyombo has recently garnered attention for uncovering alleged corruption and smuggling activities involving officials from the Nigeria Customs Service at the nation’s borders. His investigative journalism frequently highlights issues like corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations, which have made him a target of threats and harassment in previous instances.
In a statement urging his release, FIJ voiced deep concern about the consequences for press freedom.
“The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt has held our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, for the past three days. Journalism is not a crime,” stated the FIJ.
Recent investigations by Soyombo have reportedly resulted in attempts to silence him, intensifying concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
Further information will be provided soon…
