Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu has come under intense social media scrutiny over allegations that he misappropriated ransom funds intended for a kidnapped pregnant woman and her husband in Edo State. The controversy escalated after claims circulated online that he “ran away” with part of the N5.4 million ransom.

Lawyer’s Explanation:

• Gwamnishu’s method reportedly involves mixing real cash with prototype notes containing tracking chips, as the chips cannot be inserted into actual currency.
• The removed cash is usually returned to the victim’s family after a successful rescue.
• During the ransom operation, masked kidnappers collected the money but released only the pregnant woman, leaving her husband in captivity.
• Gwamnishu allegedly accompanied the family to Auchi Police Station, explained the tracking procedure, and handed over the removed cash to police.
• Claims of a 14-day detention order were denied by his lawyer.

Lawyer’s Defense:

• Gwamnishu voluntarily submitted himself to the police and is reportedly willing to assist in tracing the kidnappers using the active tracking chip.
• The lawyer suggested the social media backlash is partly fueled by “bad blood” from past controversies, and stressed that Gwamnishu should not be condemned without a competent court ruling.
• The statement criticized public interference and online attention overshadowing the ongoing rescue operation.

Concerns Raised:

• The lawyer highlighted the risks of private citizens negotiating with armed criminals while official security agencies remain on the sidelines.
• Gwamnishu was cautioned against entering the bush again, insisting police should take full control of the rescue effort.

Status:

• The N5.4 million ransom is reportedly already with the police.
• As of press time, Edo State Police had not issued an official response to the circulating claims.