Prominent Nigerian investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been detained by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. His arrest, which has now entered its third day, has sparked widespread condemnation and concerns over press freedom in the country.
Soyombo is well-known for his fearless reporting on corruption and systemic failures in Nigeria. His detention has drawn outrage on social media and from international and local rights groups, who are calling for his immediate release.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, FIJ denounced the detention, describing it as a direct attack on press freedom. The organization also revealed that Soyombo’s devices were confiscated, raising concerns over potential tampering with critical evidence.
FIJ declared, “Journalism is not a crime! #FreeFisayoNow,” and urged the Nigerian Army to safeguard the confiscated materials.
The incident has reignited debates about Nigeria’s treatment of journalists, with many recalling Soyombo’s brief detention in 2021 after exposing police corruption. Activist Aisha Yesufu criticized the military, urging them to focus on combating terrorism instead of silencing journalists. “Journalism is not a crime,” she stated firmly.
Amnesty International Nigeria joined the calls for Soyombo’s release, labelling his detention “arbitrary and unlawful.” The International Centre for Investigative Reporting also condemned the action, describing it as a blow to press freedom.
Despite growing pressure, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement regarding Soyombo’s detention. Attempts by reporters to reach Army spokesperson Clement Nwachukwu have gone unanswered.
