Fresh details have emerged in the ongoing controversy surrounding the arrest and detention of Delta-born human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who is currently being held by authorities in Edo State over allegations of diverting ₦5.4 million from a kidnapping ransom.
Fejiro Oliver, in a public appeal on Friday night, called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene, describing the situation as a “calculated attempt” that could keep Gwamnishu behind bars throughout the festive period.
Oliver, who disclosed he has known Gwamnishu since 2016, said he initially chose to remain silent on the matter but decided to speak after obtaining what he described as “verified facts” from sources close to both men.
According to Oliver, the Edo State Government had previously engaged Gwamnishu to assist in rescuing kidnapped victims, including a recent case where the state allegedly provided ransom cash fitted with tracking chips. The operation reportedly failed after the tracking device malfunctioned in a forested area, a setback which Oliver says caused the state government to lose confidence in Gwamnishu.
In the latest incident, Gwamnishu was invited to a meeting purportedly to resolve questions surrounding the missing ₦5.4 million—part of a ₦20 million ransom paid for the release of a kidnapped couple. Upon arriving at the Edo State Police Command, he was arrested instead.
Oliver emphasized that the activist’s detention is not merely a police action but one backed by the Edo State Government.
The police have secured a two-week remand order from the Edo State High Court, expiring on December 19. Oliver warns that this timing could result in Gwamnishu being kept in custody beyond Christmas, given that courts typically close for the holidays around the same period.
“Only a lifetime enemy will plan such for someone who is not a criminal, terrorist, or separatist,” Oliver wrote.
He urged Governor Oborevwori to leverage his relationship with his Edo counterpart to ensure the case is taken over by the Edo State Attorney General and subsequently terminated, allowing Gwamnishu to return to Delta State.
Oliver referenced a past encounter to highlight what he described as Oborevwori’s compassionate nature.
He recalled when he was arrested and the the governor expressed shock at his treatment, allegedly asking officers why his clothes were removed.
“It is this humane side of you that I implore today,” Oliver appealed.
Gwamnishu, known for his activism and rescue interventions across Nigeria, previously served as an aide under Governor Oborevwori. His supporters argue that he is being targeted for political reasons, though no official statement has been issued by the Edo State or Delta State Governments.
Oliver urged the governor to demonstrate that all Deltans matter, especially when they face challenges outside the state.
