The Nigerian Army has released investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo after three days of detention, following an intense media campaign calling for his release.

Soyombo, who is the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), was detained by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In a post on social media on Friday, FIJ confirmed Soyombo’s release, stating, “We can confirm that our founder @fisayosoyombo has now been released by @HQNigerianArmy, following the intense media campaign you all mounted.”

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Earlier, the FIJ had reported that Soyombo had been held by the Nigerian Army for three days. The organization condemned the detention, emphasizing that “Journalism is not a crime,” as it sought to bring attention to the case.

The Nigerian Army, in a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division Army Public Relations, explained that Soyombo had been arrested at an illegal oil bunkering site.

Danjuma stated that Soyombo, along with other suspects, was being investigated for their alleged involvement in the illicit operation.

However, the FIJ disputed the Army’s claim of Soyombo’s involvement in illegal activities.

“FIJ acknowledges the Nigerian Army’s deliberate mischaracterisation to suggest an involvement in ‘illegal oil bunkering’. FIJ will also address this statement appropriately,” the organization stated in its Friday post.

The Foundation for Investigative Journalism also raised concerns about Soyombo’s safety following his release.

“Our immediate concern is regarding the safety of Fisayo Soyombo in view of extensive information sharing with the Army on his fieldwork during the period of his detention. We are assessing the situation and hoping that his safety will not be jeopardised after release,” FIJ added.

A chilling plot to assassinate La Presse journalist Daniel Renaud has come to light, with convicted killer Frédérick Silva admitting to offering a C$100,000 bounty for the reporter’s death.

Silva, who was convicted in 2022 for three murders and an attempted murder, confessed to the newspaper that he had tried to arrange the hit while awaiting trial in 2021.

Silva, now serving a life sentence and acting as a police informant, revealed that he approached two influential figures in Quebec’s organized crime world to carry out the murder.

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However, both individuals reportedly expressed reservations about targeting a journalist, calling it a “bad idea.” After about two months, Silva canceled the contract, citing “more important issues” to focus on.

The revelation has shocked both the public and local officials. Quebec Premier François Legault condemned the plot, saying, “It makes no sense that in Quebec – we are not in a movie – there is a contract placed on the head of a journalist because he does his job. This is not the Quebec we want.”

He emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat organized crime in the province.

Renaud, who had been unaware of the plot, spoke to La Presse about his shock.

“I don’t censor myself, but I always exercise restraint so I don’t reveal details about the private lives of criminals and avoid putting lives in danger. So I never thought that I could have ended up the subject of a contract like this,” he said.

Vincent Marissal, a former colleague of Renaud’s at La Presse and now a provincial politician with the left-wing Québec Solidaire, expressed support for the journalist.

“He’s a very rigorous person—not the type of guy who makes a lot of noise in the newsroom, but apparently he can cause a lot of bother. That means he’s doing his job, but that’s certainly no reason to see a price put on his head.”

The Abia State government has announced a comprehensive ban on the use of fireworks, including knockouts, bangers, and other explosive materials, during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The move, aimed at ensuring the safety and security of lives and property, was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu.

According to the statement, the government’s decision is motivated by concerns that the use of fireworks could be exploited by criminals to create panic and carry out crimes under the guise of festive activities.

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“All residents are hereby directed to desist from the use of fireworks and related explosive materials. Such activities could pose serious security risks during the Yuletide season,” the statement read.

To enforce the ban, the government has instructed the chairmen of all 17 local government areas, traditional rulers, and town unions to collaborate with security agencies to ensure full compliance within their respective domains.

Violators, the statement warned, will face strict legal consequences.

Residents of Abia State have been urged to prioritize community safety and celebrate the festive season responsibly.

Security agencies have also been directed to monitor and enforce the ban effectively.