The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo at an illegal oil bunkering site, following public outcry over his detention.
The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), which Soyombo founded, revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that he had been in Army custody for three days.
“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,” FIJ stated.
Responding to the reports, the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, issued a statement on Friday explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
“Recently, intelligence revealed the presence of a notorious gang of oil thieves known for pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections,” Danjuma said.
“In a targeted operation, troops traced the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. During the operation, arrests were made, including that of Fisayo Soyombo, who was also detained at the scene.”
He added that the suspects, including Soyombo, are undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their level of involvement.
“You will recall that the Division has intensified its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations, achieving significant operational successes. Soyombo’s arrest is linked to the activities of these oil thieves in the region,” Danjuma stated, urging the media to verify information before publication.
The Army reassured the public of its commitment to combating oil theft and pipeline sabotage, which it described as critical to boosting the nation’s oil and gas production.
The development has sparked debate about press freedom and the role of journalists in exposing criminal activities. Soyombo is known for his investigative work shedding light on corruption and illegal operations across Nigeria.
