Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nigerians and the media for their overwhelming support, which he credits for his release from the custody of the Nigerian Army. In a statement on Saturday, Soyombo detailed his ordeal, emphasizing the critical role of public solidarity in securing his freedom.

Soyombo, who was detained in the early hours of Wednesday and held for three days, recounted his arrest and subsequent interrogation. He revealed how he was extensively questioned late into the night following his detention and returned to his cell only around 11 p.m. on the day of his arrest. However, the expected follow-up questioning on Thursday did not materialize, as the Army reportedly intended to prolong its investigation into his identity as an investigative journalist.

Describing his experience, Soyombo wrote, “‘Nigerians are not worth fighting for.’ I hear that every now and then, and I’ve always disbelieved it. Yesterday, you proved me right.” He went on to highlight how the hashtag #FreeFisayoNow trended across Nigerian social media, drawing the attention of human rights activists, journalists, and concerned citizens. Traditional media also amplified the campaign, raising pressing concerns about press freedom and due process.

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A turning point in his detention came on Friday morning during his transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB). Soyombo recalled a chance encounter with an officer who recognized his name from news reports. “To my utmost surprise, on Friday morning, at about 11 a.m., I was retrieved from my cell for transfer to MIB. It was during the transfer that someone who ran into me asked to know my name, after which they said: ‘You’re the one; you’re in the news.’”

He acknowledged the collective efforts of Nigerians, emphasizing that their pressure played a pivotal role in his release. “Without your pressure, I’d still be in that cell by now, away from civilization and held incommunicado. So, yes, my freedom is your freedom. This victory exists because of you, you and you. Thank you!”

Soyombo’s detention, which sparked widespread outrage, has reignited conversations about press freedom and the importance of protecting investigative journalism in Nigeria. The groundswell of public and media advocacy serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in upholding human rights and accountability.