The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo at an illegal oil bunkering site, following widespread public concern over his detention.
The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), which Soyombo founded, had earlier raised alarm on X (formerly Twitter), disclosing that the journalist had been in Army custody for three days.
“The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been detaining our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, for three days running. Journalism is not a crime,” the FIJ stated.
In response, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, issued a statement on Friday clarifying the circumstances of Soyombo’s arrest. According to Danjuma, the journalist was detained during a military operation targeting a gang notorious for pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections.
“Intelligence reports had identified a notorious gang of oil thieves operating in the region,” Danjuma explained. “During a targeted operation, troops traced the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. Arrests were made at the scene, including that of Fisayo Soyombo, who was present at the site.”
Danjuma noted that Soyombo and others apprehended during the raid are undergoing preliminary investigations to ascertain their level of involvement in the activities at the site.
“The suspects are currently being investigated to determine their connection to the oil theft operations. It is important for media outlets to report accurately and avoid speculations,” he stated.
The Army emphasized its commitment to combating illegal oil activities, which have long plagued the Niger Delta region. “Our ongoing anti-illegal oil bunkering operations have recorded significant successes. These efforts aim to curb criminal activities and increase oil and gas production in the country,” Danjuma added.
