Human rights activist and founder of the Safe City Volunteer Foundation, Harrison Gwamnishu, has addressed the public for the first time since regaining his freedom from the Edo State Police Command. In a video statement shared on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Gwamnishu expressed gratitude to his supporters and provided crucial clarifications regarding the circumstances of his recent detention.
Voluntary Presentation, Not Arrest
In a move to set the record straight, Harrison Gwamnishu firmly dismissed insinuations that he was arrested or formally invited by the police. He stated that as a law-abiding citizen, he voluntarily presented himself for investigation concerning an undisclosed incident. This statement directly counters claims made by controversial social media commentator, VeryDarkMan (VDM), who had alleged that Gwamnishu was arrested.
"For clarity, I was neither invited nor arrested by the Police," Gwamnishu wrote in a detailed Facebook post accompanying his video. "As a law-abiding citizen, I voluntarily presented myself for investigation regarding the incident. At the moment, I have not been charged, as the matter is still under review by the Directorate of Public Prosecution."
Gratitude for Support and Professionalism
Gwamnishu extended heartfelt appreciation to the netizens and followers who stood by him during the period, despite not having heard his version of events. He particularly thanked his legal team, comprising Barr. Olayiwola Afolabi, SAN, Barr. Dele Igbinedion, Barr. Favour Ajuebor, and Barr Awele Ideal, for their dedication in securing his release.
Surprisingly, the activist also had kind words for the Edo State Police Command. He acknowledged the professionalism of the Edo State Commissioner of Police, noting that he had expected potential hostility due to his long-standing advocacy against police brutality. He further commended the investigation team led by CSP Osagie for their "care and fatherly guidance" during his detention.
Public Reactions and Broader Context
The news of Gwamnishu's release and his subsequent statement sparked a wave of reactions on social media. Supporters flooded his comment section with welcome messages and viewed the ordeal as a revealing experience.
Phil Jacob commented, "It's not luck that has brought you this far but God did. Welcome back home brotherly." Another user, Ksee Choice Ehimare, saw it as a lesson: "God has used this experience to let u know who ur real enemies are... Experience is the best teacher. This is an eye opener."
The incident has also stirred conversations beyond the simple narrative of release. Prior to this, a man had publicly advised Gwamnishu to sack his lawyer over the latter's admission regarding the use of fake currency in a past kidnapping rescue operation, tagging the lawyer an "AI lawyer." This adds a layer of ongoing legal and public relations complexity surrounding the activist's work.
Harrison Gwamnishu's statement concludes with a note of thanks to everyone involved and a reaffirmation of his commitment to his journey, signing off as the founder of the Safe City Volunteer Foundation.
