Illegal Oil Bunkering Cannot Stop in Nigeria – Investigative Journalist Fisayo Soyombo

Following his release from detention, investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has alleged deep-seated collusion between security agencies and illegal oil bunkers, warning that illegal oil bunkering cannot be eradicated in Nigeria without addressing internal corruption.

Soyombo, who was detained by the Nigerian Army at 2 a.m. on Wednesday, shared his ordeal and concerns while speaking on Arise TV this morning.

He accused the army of compromising his security by allegedly leaking his statements to collaborators within the illegal oil bunkering network.

Everything I told the army, they told the bunkers, Soyombo said. Illegal oil bunkers have collaborators in the security agencies. Illegal oil bunkering can never stop in Nigeria.

The investigative journalist recounted how he was interrogated extensively by the army but managed to regain his freedom after three days in detention, largely due to public outcry and social media advocacy under the hashtag #FreeFisayoNow.

My case was forwarded to a superior office for interrogation on Thursday, but the day was uneventful,” Soyombo said. “It was clear they intended to detain me indefinitely to ‘investigate’ my work as a journalist.

Soyombo revealed that during his transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade on Friday, someone recognised him and acknowledged that his case was making waves in the media. He credited his release to the immense pressure from social and traditional media.

However, Soyombo expressed dismay at what he called the Nigerian Army’s betrayal, saying, “The army’s statement sold me to the bunkers. For the first time, my security has been compromised.”

He called on Nigerians to hold security agencies accountable for their alleged complicity in the illegal oil bunkering industry, emphasising that true reform can only come with transparency and justice.

It will shock you who escorts the bunkers,” Soyombo said.

He also criticised the apparent apathy of some Nigerians toward such pressing issues, though he acknowledged the role of the public in securing his release.

In a post on X after his release, 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.”

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