The Nigerian Army has released Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), after spending three days in its custody.
The Daily Crucible reports that Soyombo was arrested by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A statement by the FIJ said his arrest occurred at a location the military deemed as “an illegal oil bunkering site.”
The FIJ also confirmed Soyombo’s release on its official X handle: “We can confirm that our founder, @fisayosoyombo, has now been released by @HQNigerianArmy, following the intense media campaign you all mounted.”
It dismissed the Army’s allegations against Soyombo, saying it was an attempt to misrepresent Soyombo’s investigative work.
FIJ also expressed worry about Soyombo’s safety following sensitive information he shared with the Army while his detention and interrogation lasted.
“FIJ acknowledges the Nigerian Army’s deliberate mischaracterisation to suggest an involvement in ‘illegal oil bunkering.’ FIJ will also address this statement appropriately.
“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.”
