Asaba, Delta State — Human rights and security activist Harrison Gwamnishu has reportedly undergone what was described as spiritual fortification and protection amid growing concerns over insecurity and threats to his safety in Delta State.
Days after his release from police custody in Edo State, a video circulating online showed Gwamnishu kneeling at an open-air spiritual temple while a native doctor and several worshippers prayed over him and performed spiritual rituals.
During the ceremony, the native doctor was heard declaring that “anyone who tries to harm Gwamnishu will be destroyed.”
Gwamnishu has been involved in assisting security agencies in tracking suspected kidnappers and rescuing victims. However, he recently expressed concerns about his personal safety, saying he no longer feels completely secure even while working alongside security personnel.
He questioned whether some officers could be acting on undisclosed instructions from their superiors, asking: “How can I stay focused in the bush when I don’t know if some of the people beside me have hidden orders against me?”
The development comes shortly after Gwamnishu spent about two weeks in police custody following allegations that he collected ₦5.4 million allegedly intended for ransom payments. He has denied the allegation, maintaining that he voluntarily went to the police and was never charged with any offence.
His situation has generated significant reactions on social media, with some Nigerians urging him to reconsider his direct involvement in high-risk security operations.
One social media user wrote: “They are jealous of your success. Please stop going with those state actors—they could set you up.”
Another warned: “You are always close to people with guns. Just one wrong order and you’re gone. May God protect you.”
Gwamnishu, 34, is known for his human rights advocacy, particularly his campaigns on behalf of people he believes have been unlawfully detained or denied justice. His activities, however, have also attracted criticism and allegations of fraud, which he has faced publicly.
In recent months, he has been increasingly vocal about kidnappings and violent attacks across parts of Nigeria. He also recently visited a church in Kwara State following an attack in which 38 worshippers were reportedly abducted by gunmen.
His decision to seek spiritual fortification appears to reflect the increasing concerns surrounding his safety as he continues to operate at the intersection of human rights advocacy, security operations and crime intervention.