by Godwin Orozo-
The Nigerian Army’s 6th Division has provided details on the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, linking it to an operation targeting illegal oil bunkering in Port Harcourt.
According to the army, Soyombo was apprehended at an oil theft site during a raid aimed at dismantling a network of criminals engaged in pipeline vandalism and illicit oil activities.
In a statement, the army explained, “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. Troops trailed the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site, where arrests were made, including one Fisayo Soyombo who was also arrested at the scene.”
The journalist, renowned for his investigative work on corruption and human rights, was detained alongside several others.
The army noted that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the level of involvement of those arrested. Soyombo’s detention has sparked concern among press freedom advocates. The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), which he founded, has called for his immediate release.
In a statement, the FIJ emphasized, “This is a troubling development for press freedom in Nigeria. Fisayo Soyombo was carrying out his professional duties as a journalist. His arrest raises serious questions about the safety of journalists in the country.”
The incident has drawn widespread attention, with observers urging the authorities to ensure a fair and transparent investigation while respecting the rights of journalists.
