The FIJ, in a statement, condemned Fisayo Soyombo’s detention, calling for his immediate release. “Journalism is not a crime,” the organization declared, expressing concern over the increasing threats to press freedom in Nigeria.
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – 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 for three days.
The FIJ confirmed the detention on Friday, linking it to Soyombo’s recent investigative work exposing corruption and smuggling activities allegedly facilitated by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
Soyombo, renowned for his fearless reporting on corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations, has faced numerous threats throughout his career. His latest investigation accused customs officers of colluding with a prominent smuggler, Adeyemi Habeeb Abdulganiy, also known as Abuga, to illegally bring over 2,000 cars and large quantities of rice into Nigeria from the Benin Republic.
In a social media post on November 9, Soyombo detailed the alleged operation, claiming it was scheduled to take place the following day. He alleged that soldiers from the 192 Battalion at Owode were also involved in securing the smuggling route.
“Road users in Sango can expect traffic congestion early tomorrow morning unless this post prompts an about-face from the actors,” Soyombo wrote, adding that the public was closely watching the customs officers. He accused them of later staging seizures of items to feign enforcement.
Following Soyombo’s revelations, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada dismissed the allegations as “fictitious” and “illogical,” insisting that customs personnel were not involved in the illegal activities. In response, Soyombo released additional video evidence to support his claims, challenging the NCS to refute them.
The FIJ, in a statement, condemned Soyombo’s detention, calling for his immediate release. “Journalism is not a crime,” the organization declared, expressing concern over the increasing threats to press freedom in Nigeria.
The case has drawn widespread attention, reigniting debates about press freedom and the dangers faced by journalists who expose corruption in the country. Soyombo’s investigative work has previously earned him accolades, but also frequent harassment and intimidation.
As of now, the Nigerian Army has not provided an official statement on the reasons for Soyombo’s detention. Rights groups and media organizations continue to advocate for his release and protection.
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