Army Explains Why Investigative Journalist Fisayo Soyombo Was Arrested

Army Explains Why Investigative Journalist Fisayo Soyombo Was ArrestedThe 6th Division of the Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, who is suspected of involvement in illegal oil bunkering activities. According to Naija News, Soyombo, the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been held in custody for three days.

In a statement issued on Friday, the FIJ demanded Soyombo’s immediate release and raised concerns about growing threats to press freedom in Nigeria. Soyombo, widely known for his investigative work on sensitive issues such as corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations, has previously faced intimidation and harassment due to his reporting.

“The 6th Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been detaining our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, for three days now. Journalism is not a crime,” FIJ stated.

In response, the Acting Deputy Director of the 6th Division Army Public Relations, Danjuma Jonah, clarified that Soyombo was arrested alongside other individuals involved in oil bunkering activities. He emphasized that the suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their level of involvement.

The Army’s statement, titled ‘ALLEGED DETENTION OF JOURNALIST IN PORT HARCOURT, MISLEADING’, read: “The Headquarters of the 6th Division, Nigerian Army, has noted with concern the misleading information circulating on social media, particularly in a report by Sahara Reporters on November 29, 2024, which falsely claims that the Nigerian Army detained an investigative journalist in Port Harcourt. While we will not engage with those spreading misinformation, it is crucial to set the record straight.”

The statement further explained that the 6th Division had recently intensified operations against illegal oil bunkering in the region, with significant successes. Intelligence had pointed to a notorious gang involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal oil theft. During a targeted operation, Army personnel raided an illegal bunkering site, arresting several individuals, including Soyombo.

The Army noted that all suspects are currently undergoing investigations to verify their involvement. “His arrest is directly related to the criminal activities of these oil thieves,” the statement clarified.

The 6th Division reiterated its commitment to combating criminal gangs, especially oil thieves, in the region, emphasizing that the crackdown aims to protect national oil and gas production. The Army called on the media to ensure the accuracy of their reports before sharing information with the public.

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