Following the recent news of Fisayo Soyombo’s arrest by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, which emerged on Friday, there has been immense pressure from the Nigerian public, particularly on social media, calling for his release. Fortunately, these efforts have borne fruit, as the investigative journalist has regained his freedom.
On November 29, 2024, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) reported that Soyombo had been apprehended and held for three days by the military division. Subsequent reports indicated that he was arrested at an illegal oil bunkering site.
In a statement posted on his “X” account, Soyombo revealed that he was subjected to torture during his detention. He credited his release to the widespread social media activism that quickly brought attention to his situation.
He expressed gratitude, stating, “Yesterday, you proved me right. You all are the reason my detention by @HQNigerianArmy lasted ‘only’ three days. I’m a free man today because of your social media engagements with #FreeFisayoNow and the coverage by traditional media. I can substantiate this.”
Soyombo detailed his harrowing experience: “After my arrest around 2 AM on Wednesday, I was interrogated by various levels of the Army until late at night, not returning to my cell until at least 11 PM. My case was then escalated to a higher authority for further questioning on Thursday. To my surprise, Thursday passed without any developments; I learned the Army could take ‘as long as it wanted’ to verify my identity as an investigative journalist.”
He recounted his unexpected transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade on Friday morning, where a fellow inmate recognized him and remarked, “You’re the one; you’re in the news.”
Soyombo emphasized that without the public’s pressure, he might still be confined, isolated from the outside world. “So, yes, my freedom is your freedom. This victory exists because of you. Thank you!” he concluded.
