The Nigerian Army has clarified its reasons for arresting investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, stating that his detention is tied to ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering and related criminal activities in the region.
In a statement issued on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, November 29, 2024, the Army disclosed that Soyombo was apprehended by personnel of the 6th Division at an illegal oil bunkering site.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, explained the circumstances:
“We arrested Mr. Fisayo Soyombo because he was found at the scene of an illegal oil bunkering operation. His arrest is a direct result of our ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal gangs involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal oil connections in the region.”
The Army dismissed claims that Soyombo’s detention was politically motivated or unrelated to the ongoing operation, emphasizing its focus on addressing criminality in the region.
“While we do not engage with falsehoods, it is important to set the record straight,” the statement added. “Mr. Soyombo’s arrest is directly tied to the ongoing operations against oil theft. Any claims suggesting otherwise are baseless and misleading.”
