Edo Court Grants Activist Harrison Gwamnishu Bail

In a dramatic turn of events, the Edo State High Court has granted bail to activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who was arrested and detained following allegations of diverting N5.4 million from a N20 million ransom meant for an abducted Edo couple. The court, presided over by Justice E. O. Erhire, had previously denied Gwamnishu’s bail application on December 9, 2025, citing the need for further inquiry into the allegations against him.

However, in a recent development, the court has reversed its decision and granted Gwamnishu bail, pending the outcome of the investigation and trial. The bail grant comes after Gwamnishu’s lawyer, Efe Okoro, argued that his client posed no flight risk and was cooperating with investigators.

Gwamnishu, the founder of Safe City Volunteer Foundation, had been arrested on December 5, 2025, following allegations by Abdulganiyu Oseni, the brother-in-law of the abducted couple, that he had diverted part of the ransom money. The allegations sparked widespread outrage and controversy, with many calling for Gwamnishu’s prosecution.

The court’s decision to grant bail has been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing relief that Gwamnishu will be released from custody, while others are calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations against him.

The investigation into the allegations against Gwamnishu is ongoing, and he is expected to cooperate fully with the authorities. The court’s decision to grant bail is pending the outcome of the trial, and Gwamnishu’s lawyer has expressed confidence that his client will be exonerated.

The allegations against Gwamnishu have already had a significant impact on his reputation, with many questioning his integrity and motives. However, his lawyer has vowed to clear his name and restore his reputation.

The case has highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency in the handling of ransom money and the investigation of kidnapping cases in Nigeria. It has also raised questions about the role of activists and NGOs in addressing security challenges in the country.