- …Call for Retraction, Public Apology
The Coalition of Border Indigenous Elites (CBIE) has accused investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, of allegedly orchestrating a smear campaign against Nigeria’s border communities, traditional rulers, and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
At a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, CBIE’s spokesperson, Comrade Williams, described Soyombo’s recent investigative report as “a malicious and well-funded attempt to distort facts, discredit lawful border trade, and shield actual smugglers.” The coalition alleged that the journalist’s work serves the interests of smuggling cartels while undermining legitimate economic activities in border communities.
CBIE claimed that Soyombo has a pattern of selectively attacking respected institutions, while allegedly protecting certain individuals involved in illicit trade. They accused him of maintaining close ties with known smuggling figures such as Sinjeganji Samuel (Mile 2), Tunde Olatunbosun, and Rotimi Ahosi, whom they allege are deeply entrenched in illegal border activities.
“His reckless misinformation is not journalism; it is propaganda designed to destabilize border security while keeping his financial backers in business,” Williams stated. “His so-called investigation deliberately ignores the real perpetrators while attempting to discredit those working to dismantle smuggling networks.”
The group further alleged that Soyombo collaborates with media platforms that lack journalistic integrity, accusing him of spreading misinformation to serve vested interests.
CBIE rejected what they described as Soyombo’s attempt to portray border communities as centers of illegal trade, insisting that these communities have historically contributed to Nigeria’s economy through legitimate commerce. They argued that stigmatizing their populations harms livelihoods and undermines economic cooperation with neighboring countries.
The coalition also condemned what they termed an “unwarranted attack” on traditional rulers, who they described as custodians of cultural heritage and stability. “Accusing our leaders of complicity in smuggling without credible evidence is an affront to our collective dignity,” Williams said.
CBIE dismissed Soyombo’s claims of weak border security, insisting that the NCS, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified anti-smuggling operations. They highlighted ongoing intelligence-sharing efforts between Customs, the military, and law enforcement agencies as evidence that border enforcement is stronger than ever.
“His claim that Nigeria’s borders are unguarded is false and misleading, meant only to undermine public confidence in security efforts,” CBIE stated. “The government’s renewed commitment to border control has significantly curtailed smuggling, making illicit trade increasingly difficult.”
The coalition demanded that Soyombo retract his publication and issue a public apology within 24 hours, warning that failure to do so could prompt further action.
“We will not allow an opportunistic propagandist to tarnish the legacy of our revered leaders and discredit the progress made in border security,” Williams declared.
CBIE also warned that Soyombo’s alleged brand of “compromised journalism” threatens the credibility of Nigeria’s media industry. “If individuals like him continue to masquerade as investigative journalists, the future of Nigerian journalism will be at risk,” the spokesperson added.
As of press time, Soyombo has not publicly responded to the allegations. His investigative reports have often sparked controversy, with supporters praising his work for exposing corruption, while critics accuse him of bias and sensationalism. These unfolding developments, are expected to fuel further debate on press ethics, border security, and the role of investigative journalism in Nigeria.
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