Renowned investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Fisayo Soyombo, has been detained by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to FIJ, Soyombo has been in custody for three days as of Friday, raising alarms about press freedom in Nigeria.
The FIJ made the announcement via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, calling for Soyombo’s immediate release. The platform highlighted the need to protect journalists and condemned any actions that seek to stifle investigative reporting. “The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been detaining our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, for three days running. Journalism is not a crime,” the organization tweeted.
https://x.com/fijnigeria/status/1862405940818923688?t=bUNSeLsiiMRMiQfo1nPgOw&s=19
Soyombo has made a name for himself by uncovering high-profile corruption, human rights violations, and abuse of power. His recent investigations into alleged corruption and smuggling activities facilitated by Nigeria Customs Service officials at the borders are believed to be linked to his detention.
Reports indicate Soyombo has faced threats and harassment in the past, including attempts to silence him with inducements. FIJ has raised concerns that this arrest may signal a broader crackdown on press freedom in the country.
Advocates for press freedom and human rights groups are expected to weigh in on the situation as it unfolds. Soyombo’s work has been pivotal in exposing institutional malpractice, and his detention could mark an alarming trend against journalists holding powerful institutions accountable.
The FIJ has urged the Nigerian Army to release Soyombo immediately, emphasizing that investigative journalism is a cornerstone of democracy and not a criminal act.
