What Fisayo Soyombo experienced during his 47-day journey will make you think twice

Fisayo Soyombo, the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), provides a stark warning to Nigerians contemplating the perilous journey through the Sahara to Libya in search of better opportunities.

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Through his 47-day undercover journey, Soyombo reveals the grim realities many migrants face upon arrival in Libya. Contrary to the belief that leaving Nigeria guarantees a better life, he stresses that many end up trapped in dire conditions, often unable to continue their journey to Europe.

In an interview with ARISE News, Soyombo shared that migrants frequently arrive in Libya with high hopes, only to find themselves out of funds and facing legal barriers that prevent them from accessing basic financial services, such as opening bank accounts. This lack of legitimate financial resources compels them to carry cash, making them vulnerable to robbery and exploitation. Without legal status, many are forced to take dangerous jobs, particularly in agriculture, despite the extreme heat, where temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius.

Soyombo vividly recounted a disturbing incident during his mission where he narrowly escaped being conscripted into forced labor. He observed others being captured by local operators who would subject them to arduous work without pay, subjecting them to physical danger in harsh conditions. He emphasizes that the experiences of these migrants should not be judged harshly; rather, many embark on this journey without accurate information about the extreme hardships they will face.

His investigation aims to provide a truthful depiction of the migration route to Europe, highlighting that the path is fraught with unpredictability and danger, which many do not fully appreciate prior to departure. Soyombo’s conclusion underscored the importance of informing potential migrants of the realities they face, using documentation such as photos and videos from his journey as a cautionary tale against the backdrop of their aspirations. He encourages a more informed approach to migration decisions, emphasizing that the journey is more perilous than many anticipate.

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