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November 29, 2024 – Nigeria –
Investigative journalist and FIJ founder Fisayo Soyombo was detained by the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division during an anti–illegal oil-bunkering raid at a site near Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The army confirmed his arrest, alleging he was among individuals apprehended at the operation site, and seized his devices.
Soyombo’s employer, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, initially reported his disappearance and expressed deep concern about the seizure of his equipment and lack of communication, warning that as a journalist, his safety might be jeopardized.
The arrest provoked widespread criticism. Media watchdogs, including the International Press Centre (IPC), Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Amnesty International, SERAP, and the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, condemned the army’s actions as unlawful and a violation of constitutional rights. They emphasized that the military lacks civilian arrest authority and is legally bound to charge detainees within 24 hours, procedures not followed in Soyombo’s case.
Civil society and press advocates demanded Soyombo’s immediate release and protection. On November 29, after three days in custody and intense advocacy led by the International Press Institute Nigeria, the army confirmed his release. No formal charges were laid; the army noted he was under “preliminary investigation into involvement” at the raid scene.
Journalists and rights advocates warned that while his release was a relief, the incident laid bare deeper issues: the misuse of military powers against journalists and the persistent impunity threatening press freedom in Nigeria. Soyombo, known for undercover investigations into police, prisons, customs, and corruption—including daring inquiries that earned international awards —has frequently exposed malfeasance in state and security institutions
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