Fisayo Soyombo’s Release: A Testament to Collective Action.

Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has publicly expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support during his recent detention by the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Soyombo was arrested on Wednesday and held for three days, during which he faced intense interrogation. His release on Friday was largely attributed to the concerted efforts of citizens, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and media outlets, including Naija News, who advocated for his freedom through social media and traditional news platforms.

In a poignant statement, Soyombo reflected on his ordeal, emphasizing that the pressure exerted by the public was instrumental in his swift release. “Nigerians are not worth fighting for,” he noted, a sentiment he had often contested. However, he acknowledged that the collective action surrounding the hashtag #FreeFisayoNow played a crucial role in shortening his detention.

Soyombo recounted the harrowing experience of his arrest, detailing the prolonged interrogations and the Army’s initial intent to keep him in custody indefinitely. He described a particularly quiet Thursday, during which he was left in limbo, awaiting further questioning. It was not until Friday morning, during a transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade, that he learned of the public outcry that had surrounded his case.

In his statement, Soyombo affirmed, “Without your pressure, I’d still be in that cell… So, yes, my freedom is your freedom.” His release serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that civic engagement and media advocacy can have in challenging injustices. Soyombo’s experience underscores the importance of solidarity in the face of oppression, reinforcing the notion that collective action can lead to meaningful change.