By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE NIGERIAN Army has confirmed the detention of Fisayo Soyombo, investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
They said it was in connection with checking people on illegal oil bunkering operations in Rivers State.
The Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt disclosed this in a statement on Friday by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations.
Soyombo, widely known for his investigative reporting, was arrested during a raid on an illegal bunkering site.
The operation targeted a gang involved in pipeline vandalism and oil theft.
The Army stated that Soyombo was present at the scene during the arrests and is currently under preliminary investigation alongside other suspects to ascertain his level of involvement.
The Army cautioned against premature conclusions, describing claims of unjust detention as unfounded. It also urged media outlets to verify their reports to prevent misinformation.
This development comes amid intensified military efforts to curb oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
The Army emphasised its commitment to protecting national resources and ensuring increased oil production.
Soyombo’s detention has sparked reactions, particularly from the FIJ, which demanded his immediate release, stating, “Journalism is not a crime.”
The organisation expressed concerns over the seizure of his devices and the preservation of critical evidence.
Soyombo gained prominence in 2019 after his undercover investigation of corruption in Ikoyi Prison.
His recent work includes allegations against the Nigeria Customs Service for complicity in smuggling, supported by video evidence released earlier this month.
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