In a significant development, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has confirmed the release of its founder, Fisayo Soyombo, by the Nigerian Army. This comes after widespread media attention and an intense campaign for his freedom.
In a statement issued shortly after his release, FIJ noted: “We can confirm that our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, has now been released by the Nigerian Army, following the intense media campaign you all mounted.”
However, the organization raised concerns over what it described as the Army’s “deliberate mischaracterisation” of Soyombo’s activities, hinting at allegations of his involvement in illegal oil bunkering during his detention. FIJ has firmly denied these claims and assured the public that it would respond appropriately to the Army’s statement.
“FIJ acknowledges the Nigerian Army’s deliberate mischaracterisation to suggest an involvement in ‘illegal oil bunkering.’ FIJ will also address this statement appropriately,” the statement added.
The organization also expressed unease about Soyombo’s safety post-release, particularly regarding sensitive information he may have shared during his detention.
“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.”
The circumstances surrounding Soyombo’s detention and the accusations remain unclear. However, his release marks a temporary reprieve in a case that continues to draw attention to the safety of journalists and press freedom in Nigeria.
