Activist Harrison Gwamnishu has denied allegations that he diverted N5.4 million from the N20 million raised by family members to secure the release of a kidnapped couple in Edo State.
The couple, a pregnant woman and her husband, were abducted several weeks ago. The kidnappers initially demanded N50 million, which the family negotiated down to N20 million. Harrison, who has been in contact with the family and assisting in their case, previously shared a video of the couple appealing to Nigerians for help. In the video, the husband stated that the abductors had threatened to harm his wife if the ransom was not paid.
On Wednesday, December 3, a man online accused Harrison of diverting part of the ransom. The accuser claimed that the N20 million raised was handed over to Harrison to deliver to the kidnappers. According to the claim, the kidnappers later alleged that the amount was incomplete, resulting in the release of only the pregnant wife, and that Harrison removed N5.4 million without informing the family.
Responding to the allegations, Harrison denied any wrongdoing. He explained that he had informed the family he would withhold a portion of the money for security purposes but did not disclose the strategy. “I don’t negotiate with kidnappers, my assistance is to follow them up using Tech which the Police, Military and local vigilantes are aware of,” he said.
Harrison stated that the kidnappers agreed to release only the woman due to her pregnancy, despite initially requesting N20 million for both. He explained that his role involved tracking the money to determine the real-time location of the kidnappers and coordinating with security forces for a safe rescue. He said the individuals delivering the money reported that the kidnappers claimed the amount was incomplete but did not count it, and only the woman was released.
He added that any confusion arose from a misunderstanding of the operational strategy. “They returned back and started a blame game and right in DPO Auchi’s office I explained to them the strategies and plans we use. They said why didn’t I tell them. I said I did because I remember telling them we will work on the money, but how it’s going to happen is what is not supposed to be reviewed to anyone,” he said.
Harrison reaffirmed his transparency, stating that the authorities overseeing his work in Edo State are aware of the strategy and that he did not steal any funds. He expressed willingness for a public investigation to clarify the matter.
