Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians and the media for the outpouring of support and advocacy that led to his release from Nigerian Army detention after three days.
Soyombo, who was arrested on Wednesday and released on Friday, shared his experience in a statement on Saturday, crediting the public’s efforts for his freedom.
“Nigerians are not worth fighting for.’ I hear that every now and then, and I’ve always disbelieved it,” Soyombo wrote. “Yesterday, you proved me right. You all are the reason my detention by HQ Nigerian Army lasted ‘only’ three days. I’m a free man today because of your social media engagements with #FreeFisayoNow and the publications/broadcasts by the traditional media. And I can prove it.”
Soyombo recounted how he was interrogated extensively on the day of his arrest but was not questioned further as the Army reportedly took its time to investigate his identity as a journalist.
The turning point came during his transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB) on Friday morning. An officer who recognized Soyombo’s name from recent news reports intervened, leading to his eventual release.
The hashtag #FreeFisayoNow trended widely on social media, mobilizing human rights activists, journalists, and concerned citizens. Traditional media outlets amplified the campaign, bringing attention to press freedom and due process concerns.
Reflecting on the collective support, Soyombo said, “Without your pressure, I’d still be in that cell by now, away from civilisation and held incommunicado. So, yes, my freedom is your freedom. This victory exists because of you, you and you. Thank you!”
