- ...Accuses journalist of suppressing evidence, manipulating facts to push false narrative
- ….Demands release of full, unedited footage to prove transparency
The Accountability Hub, a civil society organization advocating for transparency and factual journalism, has strongly condemned investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, accusing him of deliberately misleading the public and attempting to discredit the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The group alleges that Soyombo’s recent video, which purportedly exposes corruption within the agency, was selectively edited to fit a predetermined narrative while suppressing counter-evidence.
The controversy stems from a video released by Soyombo, in which he claims that Customs officers stationed at a checkpoint were complicit in smuggling activities, allowing vehicles loaded with contraband rice to pass through after allegedly receiving bribes. He singled out two officers, Ajao and Najeem, as symbols of what he described as systemic corruption within the NCS.
However, the Accountability Hub argues that a second video from the same location, which contradicts Soyombo’s claims, was deliberately left out of his report. According to the organization, this alternative footage shows a bystander commending the Customs officers for their diligence in combating smuggling, raising serious concerns about Soyombo’s journalistic integrity.
“This selective reporting is not just misleading but a calculated attempt to deceive the public,” the Accountability Hub stated. “If Soyombo were truly committed to investigative journalism, why did he suppress evidence that contradicts his claims? Why did he ignore the footage that portrays Customs officers performing their duties with dedication? Such actions call his credibility into question.”
The group further accused Soyombo of having an ongoing bias against the Nigeria Customs Service, alleging that he has repeatedly sought to paint the agency as a corrupt institution while ignoring other key players involved in smuggling operations.
“The Customs officers he vilifies are the same individuals who put their lives at risk daily to protect Nigeria’s borders, curb illegal trade, and generate revenue for the nation,” the group said. “Yet, instead of acknowledging their efforts, Soyombo singles them out for condemnation while overlooking the well-organized smuggling syndicates that truly benefit from illicit trade.”
The Accountability Hub also expressed concern that Soyombo’s one-sided reportage could erode public trust in the NCS, weakening an institution critical to Nigeria’s economic stability and national security. By persistently presenting the agency as corrupt, the group warned, Soyombo may be indirectly emboldening smugglers while discouraging honest officers from performing their duties effectively.
The organization has now challenged Soyombo to release the full, unedited footage from the checkpoint, including the version that praises Customs officers, as proof of his transparency and commitment to ethical journalism.
“If he truly stands for fairness and objectivity, let him release all the footage so Nigerians can judge for themselves,” the group demanded. “Investigative journalism should be about uncovering the truth, not pushing a personal agenda.”
The Accountability Hub concluded by emphasizing the importance of strengthening national institutions rather than engaging in sensationalist attacks that weaken the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage. It called on media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and ensure balanced reporting that serves the public interest rather than personal or political motives.
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