Aisha Wahab, a 22-year-old woman from Auchi, Edo State, who was abducted two weeks ago, has been released, with reports suggesting that a N20 million ransom secured her freedom.
The release was confirmed on Saturday by Harrison Gwamnishu, human rights activist and founder of the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation, who noted that both security agencies and the Edo State Government failed to collaborate during rescue efforts.
According to Gwamnishu, Aisha was kidnapped at Igbira Camp in Auchi and later freed in Okpella, Edo State, a significant distance she reportedly traversed alongside her abductors.
He expressed frustration that his team could not apprehend the kidnappers due to a lack of governmental cooperation.
“We couldn’t move in to capture her abductors because the State Security Agencies and the Edo State Government have repeatedly failed to respond to our calls for collaboration,” Gwamnishu said in an Instagram post.
Confirming earlier reports, he told this reporter that he contributed N5 million to the N15 million reportedly raised to secure her release.
He added that certain technical equipment necessary for the rescue operation required official authorisation, which was never granted despite repeated requests.
The activist also revealed that the Foundation has now retreated to its operational base in another state, where full support from the Police, Military, and government authorities is available.
“There are several proven avenues to capture these kidnappers.
“We demand immediate government intervention, coordinated field operations, and full support for law enforcement. Lives are at stake, ” he said.
He also thanked Nigerians who supported Aisha’s family during the ordeal and called for stronger partnerships between citizens, volunteers, and government agencies to tackle insecurity nationwide.
Kidnapping continues to pose a severe security threat in Edo State and across Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for improved coordination between security forces and volunteer organizations to protect vulnerable communities.
