The founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), ‘Fisayo Soyombo, has been released from the custody of the Nigerian Army following an intense media campaign to secure his freedom.
FIJ confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, expressing gratitude for the widespread support that pressured the military to release Soyombo.
In the statement, FIJ addressed the Nigerian Army’s allegations, describing them as a “deliberate mischaracterisation” aimed at linking Soyombo to “illegal oil bunkering.” The organisation noted that it would respond to the military’s claims appropriately.
FIJ also raised concerns about Soyombo’s safety, particularly in light of the sensitive information he had shared with the Army during his detention. “Our immediate concern is regarding the safety of ‘Fisayo Soyombo in view of extensive information sharing with the Army on his fieldwork during the period of his detention. We are assessing the situation and hoping that his safety will not be jeopardised after release,” the statement read.
Further details regarding the circumstances of Soyombo’s arrest and the Army’s claims are yet to emerge.
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