“Nigerians are not worth fighting for.” I’ve often heard this sentiment, but I’ve never believed it. Yesterday, you proved me right.
The reason my detention by the Nigerian Army lasted “only” three days is because of you—your unwavering support, your social media advocacy with the hashtag #FreeFisayoNow, and the relentless efforts of traditional media through publications and broadcasts. I am a free man today because of this collective effort, and I can prove it.
After my arrest at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, I underwent hours of grilling by various levels of the Army until late into the night, returning to my cell only after 11 p.m. The next phase of my case was meant to involve interrogation by a superior office on Thursday.
However, Thursday came and went without incident. I later learned the Army intended to take its time with their so-called “investigation,” trying to verify that I was indeed an investigative journalist. It seemed I was in for a long haul.
To my shock, Friday morning brought an unexpected turn of events. At about 11 a.m., I was retrieved from my cell for a transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB). During the transfer, someone I encountered asked my name and then remarked: “You’re the one; you’re in the news.”
At that moment, it became clear—the pressure from you all had reached them. Without your engagement and advocacy, I would still be in that cell, cut off from the world and held incommunicado.
So, yes, my freedom is your victory. This triumph belongs to every one of you who took action. Thank you for standing by me, for your tweets, your posts, your calls, and your voices.
This is proof that when we come together, we can make a difference. Thank you for believing in the fight. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for proving that Nigerians are worth fighting for.
