On Friday, Deji Adeyanju, the popular Nigerian activist lawyer, condemned the statement by the Nigerian Army regarding the arrest of investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Adeyanju said the remark by the Nigerian Army regarding Soyombo’s arrest indicated an attempted complicity to hide Naval officers involved in oil theft.

He disclosed that top-ranking officers often exploit postings to oil-rich regions to enrich themselves.

In a statement he signed, Adeyanju said Soyombo’s arrest under the guise of oil theft is an attack on press freedom.

We had reported that Soyombo alongside others were arrested for oil bunkering and have been in custody of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt for three days.

Condemning his arrest, Adeyanju faulted the remark issued by the Nigerian Army.

However, Adeyanju said: “I condemn the unjust arrest of Fisayo Soyombo, a respected investigative journalist detained for three days. His arrest under the guise of anti-oil theft operations is an attack on press freedom and an attempt to silence his efforts to expose corruption. This detention undermines accountability and must end immediately.

“It is alarming that the Nigerian Army’s statement ignores the Navy’s complicity in oil theft. Top-ranking officers often exploit postings to oil-rich regions with the aim to enrich themselves. Without the Navy’s involvement or approval, large-scale oil theft would be impossible, perpetuating corruption and economic sabotage.

“Fisayo’s arrest and the seizure of his equipment are clear attempts to intimidate investigative journalism. Nigerians deserve transparency on oil theft, and silencing journalists like Fisayo erodes public trust. His release is critical to upholding democracy and justice.

“I urge the government to respect press freedom and call on civil society, the media, and Nigerians to resist this suppression. Fisayo must be released immediately, and investigative journalism must be protected to expose systemic corruption and safeguard our democracy.”