The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has raised alarm over the continued detention of its founder, Fisayo Soyombo, by the Nigerian Army 6 Division in Port Harcourt.
According to FIJ, Soyombo has been held for three days, with his personal devices confiscated, sparking widespread concern over press freedom and the safety of evidence critical to his investigative work.
In a statement, FIJ emphasized the need for the preservation of truth and evidence in Soyombo’s case. “The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been detaining our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, 3 days running. Journalism is not a crime! #FreeFisayoNow,” the organization declared.
The FIJ also stressed the importance of safeguarding all materials seized during Soyombo’s detention. “All his devices have been seized. The Army must preserve his evidence and truth. Don’t destroy the evidence,” the group warned.
Calling for transparency and accountability, FIJ further insisted, “We insist the truth must come out. It’s in your custody; don’t destroy the evidence.”
The situation has drawn attention from press freedom advocates, who see the detention as a troubling signal for journalists in Nigeria. Soyombo, an acclaimed investigative journalist, has previously exposed corruption and institutional failures, making his current predicament a rallying point for those defending the role of the press in holding power to account.
As the #FreeFisayoNow campaign gains momentum online, all eyes are on the Nigerian Army and the steps it will take to address the allegations of suppression and ensure the protection of press freedoms