The Nigerian Army has released investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo following widespread reports of his arrest in Port Harcourt that went viral on social media.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Army confirmed that Soyombo had been detained in connection with illegal bunkering activities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The arrest was confirmed by the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah.
The statement explained that Soyombo was arrested during a raid on an illegal bunkering site in the region as part of the Army’s intensified efforts to combat oil theft. It also stated that the Army had been successful in uncovering and disrupting a notorious gang involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal oil connections.
The Army clarified that while it generally does not respond to false claims, it deemed it necessary to set the record straight regarding Soyombo’s detention. According to the Army, Soyombo was found at the illegal bunkering site during the operation and was arrested along with other suspects. His arrest, the Army stated, was part of the ongoing anti-oil theft efforts in the region, and there is no truth to claims suggesting otherwise.
The Army also urged media outlets to verify their reports before publishing them and emphasized its commitment to tackling criminal activities, especially oil theft, to protect national resources and enhance oil and gas production.
Following his arrest, the hashtag #FreeFisayoNow gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians calling for his release. On Saturday, Soyombo provided an update, confirming that he had been freed after spending three days in Army custody.
