A High Court in Edo State has granted bail to popular activist Harrison Gwamnishu, bringing a temporary relief to a case that has drawn public attention over the past few weeks.
Gwamnishu had been in police custody since the beginning of the month following his involvement in ransom negotiations linked to the abduction of a young couple in Edo State.
The kidnappers were initially said to have demanded ₦50 million for the couple’s release. According to accounts surrounding the incident, the victims’ family reached out to Gwamnishu for help, relying on his experience in engaging abductors during similar crises.
Negotiations reportedly led to the kidnappers agreeing to accept ₦20 million as ransom. The family later claimed they handed the agreed sum to Gwamnishu to facilitate the payment. However, complications arose when the abductors allegedly discovered that part of the ransom was missing after the money was delivered. The situation reportedly worsened, with the kidnappers releasing the pregnant wife while continuing to hold her husband.
Gwamnishu has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he followed his established approach for dealing with abductors and insisting he did not divert any funds. Following the family’s complaint to the police, he was arrested and remained in detention as investigations continued.
The development of his bail was disclosed by Ossai Success Ovie, an aide to the Delta State Governor, who confirmed that the Edo High Court approved Gwamnishu’s release. While the specific bail conditions were not immediately made public, the ruling allows the activist to regain his freedom as the case proceeds through the legal system.
The matter remains under judicial consideration, and further hearings are expected. For now, the court’s decision marks a significant turn in a case that has sparked debate over the risks and complexities surrounding civilian involvement in ransom negotiations.
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
