Nigerian human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, has become the centre of public discourse after a video surfaced showing him receiving passionate prayers from a church congregation. This spiritual session took place shortly after he regained his freedom from police custody in Edo State.
Viral Video Shows Fervent Prayer Session
The activist shared the video on his Instagram page on December 23, 2025. In the clip, Gwamnishu is seen kneeling at an open-air church ground under a tent, surrounded by dozens of enthusiastic worshippers. A pastor and the congregation raised their hands, shouting intense prayers over him. At one point, the pastor declared that those who pursue Gwamnishu would be destroyed.
This public display of spiritual support drew significant attention due to its timing. It came just after Gwamnishu’s release from two weeks in Edo State Police custody. He had been detained over allegations of diverting ₦5.4 million from a ransom payment intended for a kidnapped couple.
Gwamnishu's Account of His Detention
Prior to his release, Gwamnishu had explained that he voluntarily presented himself for investigation. He maintained that he was never formally arrested or charged. In a surprising claim from his time in detention, the activist said he served as the “cell president.”
He stated that this role allowed him to help secure the release of four detainees who were being held without cause. Gwamnishu added that he did not leave the facility alone. He mentioned handing over the position of “Presido” to a young man named Onah Abba from Benue State, who he said had also been unjustly arrested and has since regained his freedom.
Mixed Reactions Flood Social Media
The viral prayer video sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, with many questioning its purpose and timing.
Instagram user @kek_abayomi1234 expressed skepticism, writing: "Guy wetin be this now???! This damage control no go work o ! Please tell us what happened ?"
Another user, @lankyjade_official, commented: "Bros I'm happy you're out… BUT SINCE U COME OUT NA CONTENTS WE DEY SEE... address people and debunk things... please speak to us." This sentiment reflected a desire for a direct explanation from the activist regarding the allegations.
Other reactions accused Gwamnishu of manipulation. User @andre50007 noted: "You dy post shrine before don dy post church, manipulation nah water?." Similarly, @kanayo.austin opined: "Stop being manipulative, nonsense, bcoz you are asked to give account of what happened, same format politicians also use."
Earlier Allegations from a Former Student Leader
The controversy surrounding Gwamnishu extends beyond the recent custody case. Earlier, Francis Iwedike Osedume, a former Student Union Government (SUG) president of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, made serious claims against the activist.
Osedume alleged that Gwamnishu stormed the Onicha Ugo community with several men, assaulted a youth named Victor over a dispute, and damaged his Mercedes-Benz GLK. He further claimed that ₦400,000 was extorted for fuel and accused Gwamnishu of prioritising money over brotherhood, citing complaints from multiple alumni.
The sequence of events—from police custody to a public prayer session—has kept Harrison Gwamnishu in the spotlight, raising questions and debates among Nigerians about accountability, public image, and the nature of the allegations against him.
