The Nigerian Army on Friday released the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Fisayo Soyombo, after detaining him in Rivers State over alleged involvement in oil bunkering.

FIJ confirmed Mr Soyombo’s release in a statement on X, stating that the Army released the investigative journalist on Friday after succumbing to pressure from the media.

FIJ’s post read: “We can confirm that our founder @fisayosoyombo has now been released by @HQNigerianArmy, following the intense media campaign you all mounted.  

“FIJ acknowledges the Nigerian Army’s deliberate mischaracterisation to suggest an involvement in ‘illegal oil bunkering.’ FIJ will also address this statement appropriately.  

“Our immediate concern is regarding the safety of Fisayo Soyombo in view of extensive information sharing with the Army on his fieldwork during the period of his detention. We are assessing the situation and hoping that his safety will not be jeopardised after release,” it stated.

The 6 Division of the Army had arrested Mr Soyombo, detained him, and seized his equipment for three days in Port Harcourt. It was only after the news reached the media and activists condemned the move that the Army issued a statement confirming the development.  

According to the Army, Mr Soyombo was arrested alongside others at an illegal oil bunkering site during an operation against oil theft and pipeline vandalism.