Nigerian Police Denies Declaring FIJ’s Fisayo Wanted

The police public relations officer (PPRO), Ademuyiwa Adejobi, has refuted claims that the Nigerian police have declared that Fisayo Soyombo, founder and editor-in-chief of Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), was wanted.

However, he acknowledged “two or three weighty allegations” against him and his platform.

Speaking on the evening programme “Politics Today” on Channels Television, Adejobi clarified the police’s stance regarding Soyombo’s status.

He stated that while there are petitions against him, the police have not officially declared him wanted.

Adejobi emphasised the need for a professional approach in handling the matter, suggesting that the National Cybercrime Centre, which handles the case, would communicate with Soyombo accordingly.

Adejobi’s remarks came in response to questions posed by the anchor, Seun Okinbaloye, regarding the alleged declaration of Soyombo as wanted by the police.

The PPRO highlighted that any communication with Soyombo would be through an invitation letter, and he expressed confidence that Soyombo would honour it if he were in the country.

Adejobi did not provide specifics regarding the nature of the allegations but mentioned “weighty allegations about some publications” by FIJ.

He stressed that an invitation from the police is to clarify certain matters and does not amount to declaring someone wanted.

Reacting to the statement by the Force PPRO, Fisayo Soyombo responded to the report by FIJ on X,

Three 'weighty allegations' against me and @fijnigeria, and the police want my board chair to 'produce' me.

More than 20 damning revelations about Nigeria Customs and not one Customs officer has been invited.

In Nigeria, three weighty allegations > 20+ damning revelations. https://t.co/mCYa4Rfy2R

— 'Fisayo Soyombo (@fisayosoyombo) April 3, 2024

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