The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has confirmed the release of its founder, Fisayo Soyombo, after he was detained by the Nigerian Army for three days.
Soyombo was arrested by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, under allegations of being involved in illegal oil bunkering.
Military authorities described the location of his arrest as an unlawful site, but the FIJ has strongly refuted these claims, labelling them as a “deliberate mischaracterisation” of Soyombo’s activities.
Meanwhile, the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria also reveals it played a crucial role in securing Fisayo Soyombo’s release.
IPI said actively intervened in the matter, working for several hours behind the scenes to ensure that Soyombo’s rights were upheld.
After learning of his release, IPI expressed gratitude, noting that authorities had informed them of his bail.
The IPI affirms its commitment to defending press freedom and supporting journalists facing legal challenges for their work in investigative reporting.
FIJ posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday evening, expressing gratitude for the public’s support in securing his release.
Despite his freedom, the organisation raised serious concerns about Soyombo’s safety, as he had shared substantial information with the Army regarding his investigative fieldwork during his detention.
FIJ also assured the public that they would continue to monitor the situation closely to safeguard Soyombo’s well-being.
