A major public dispute has erupted in Edo State after allegations surfaced that self-proclaimed security mediator Harrison Gwamnishu misappropriated ransom funds raised to secure the release of a kidnapped couple.
The controversy centers on Mr. and Mrs. Segiru, abducted from their home in Aviele, near Auchi, on November 22, 2025. The family had crowdfunded ₦20 million, along with an additional ₦50,000, to pay the kidnappers.
Abdulganiyu Oseni, elder brother to the kidnapped wife, accused Gwamnishu of diverting part of the ransom for personal gain. On social media, he called Gwamnishu a “thief” and claimed only ₦5.4 million was delivered to the Auchi Area Police Command, alleging that the activist then fled the area, leaving the husband in captivity.
Oseni said, “He stole from the ransom my family laboured for over 10 days to raise. He risked the couple’s lives knowing the kidnappers would count the money. This is unacceptable.”
Gwamnishu, however, has denied the accusations. He explained that his involvement through his Safe City Volunteer Foundation was purely technical. His role, he said, was to track the ransom using technology and coordinate with security agencies, not handle the funds directly.
He further clarified that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦50 million, which the family negotiated down to ₦20 million. Only the wife was released, as the kidnappers claimed the full ransom had not been paid. Gwamnishu blamed the ensuing blame game on the family questioning his strategy in front of police officers.
“My assistance is to track the money and provide real-time locations for security agencies,” Gwamnishu said. “The kidnappers did not verify the full amount. The husband remains in captivity, and I prefer silence to protect him, but I am open to investigation.”
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, has promised updates after reviewing the full report on the incident.
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