Detention of Investigative Journalist Fisayo Soyombo Raises Concerns Over Press Freedom in Nigeria

The Nigerian Army has reportedly arrested and detained investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). According to FIJ, the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been holding Mr. Soyombo for three days, with his devices seized.

FIJ has expressed concerns about the detention, stating, “All his devices have been seized. The Army must preserve his evidence and truth. Don’t destroy the evidence. We insist the truth must come out. It’s in your custody, don’t destroy the evidence.”

The circumstances of Mr. Soyombo’s detention remain unclear. However, it is reported that he recently published a series of reports on the porosity of Nigerian borders and the involvement of customs officials in smuggling and illegal activities.

Mr. Soyombo’s detention is not an isolated incident. Many journalists and citizen journalists have been arrested by state agents in Nigeria. In 2021, Mr. Soyombo was detained by the Nigerian Police following a publication that indicted a senior police officer.

The detention of Mr. Soyombo adds to concerns about the repression of journalists in Nigeria. Many press freedom groups have noted an expansion in scale and scope of attacks on journalists. In the first six months of this year, over 24 Nigerian journalists faced harassment while carrying out their constitutional duties.