The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of an investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo, alleging his involvement in an operation targeting a notorious oil theft gang in the Niger Delta.
Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), was detained at an illegal oil bunkering site alongside other suspects, the army said in a statement on Friday.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division Army Public Relations, port Harcourt explained that the operation was part of the army’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal oil bunkering in the region.
“This operation followed intelligence regarding a notorious gang involved in pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections,” Danjuma said.
The army claims that Soyombo, along with other suspects, was arrested during the operation at the site in Port Harcourt.
FIJ, however, disputed the army’s claims, calling Soyombo’s detention unlawful.
The foundation took to X (formerly Twitter) to confirm that Soyombo had been held for three days, stating, “Journalism is not a crime.” They expressed concern over the arrest, emphasising Soyombo’s role as an investigative journalist and his right to report on sensitive issues without fear of detention.
In response, Danjuma reassured the public that the army was committed to addressing oil theft, which has plagued Nigeria’s oil sector. “The Division remains committed to curbing illegal oil activities, which will contribute to increasing oil and gas production in the country,” he added.
Soyombo’s detention is still under investigation to determine his level of involvement in the alleged criminal activities.
