The 6th Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has reportedly arrested and detained investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, sparking widespread concern over press freedom in Nigeria.
Soyombo, the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has reportedly been held for three days. His arrest is believed to be connected to his recent exposés on corruption within the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and allegations of smuggling operations facilitated by customs officers.
In a statement issued on Friday, the FIJ demanded Soyombo’s immediate release, highlighting the growing threats to press freedom in the country. The organization emphasized that “journalism is not a crime” and called for accountability in addressing the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Allegations Against the Customs Service
Soyombo’s recent investigative work has brought significant attention to alleged smuggling activities within the NCS. In early November, he published videos and statements detailing how customs officers allegedly conspired with a prominent smuggler, Adeyemi Habeeb Abdulganiy—commonly known as Abuga—to facilitate illegal operations. According to Soyombo, these activities involved the smuggling of over 2,000 vehicles, each carrying at least 65 bags of rice, into Nigeria from Benin Republic.
The journalist claimed the operation was set to occur on November 10, 2024, and implicated soldiers from the 192 Battalion in Owode in providing cover for the operation. He outlined the smuggling routes and raised concerns about the potential dangers to road users in areas like Sango, where traffic congestion and safety hazards were anticipated due to the smugglers driving against traffic.
In a post shared on his verified social media accounts, Soyombo wrote:
“All is set. Your men, working with Adeyemi Habeeb Abdulganiy, the multi-billionaire-smuggler better known as Abuga, are primed to pass more than 2,000 cars containing at least 65 bags of rice each from Bebe in the Benin Republic into Sango, Nigeria. Some of these cars will enter Sango from the toll gate by driving against traffic, consequently endangering lives, while others will use the Oju-Ore-Ota route.”
He also warned that soldiers patrolling during the smuggling operation were likely tasked with suppressing any resistance, adding, “The people are watching; they will be hysterically laughing at you when you announce ‘seizure of one million bags of rice and 25 cartons of guns’ later this week.”
Customs Service Denies Allegations
In response to these claims, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Customs Service, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, dismissed Soyombo’s accusations as baseless and fictitious. Maiwada stated that the allegations lacked logic and insisted that customs personnel were not involved in any illegal smuggling activities.
Growing Concerns Over Press Freedom
Soyombo’s detention has drawn widespread condemnation from press freedom advocates and civil society organizations. His work, often centered on exposing corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations, has made him a target of harassment and threats in the past. This incident adds to the growing concern over the safety of journalists in Nigeria, particularly those reporting on sensitive issues involving powerful institutions.
Efforts are reportedly underway to secure Soyombo’s release, with many calling for greater protections for journalists and an end to the intimidation of media professionals. The situation continues to draw national and international attention as the debate over press freedom and accountability in Nigeria intensifies.
