The pain, confusion, and desperation surrounding a kidnapping case in Edo State have deepened, as relatives of a man still being held captive are reportedly being forced to sell off nearly everything he owns in a bid to raise an additional ₦50 million ransom.
The couple was abducted weeks ago, and kidnappers initially demanded ₦20 million. Family members reportedly spent more than ten days scraping funds together selling property, borrowing money, and calling in favors to meet the demand.
The ransom was allegedly handed over to human-rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who was said to be assisting with delivery. But the ordeal took a tragic twist when the kidnappers claimed the ransom delivered was short.
The wife was later released while the husband remains in captivity more than two weeks on.Fresh updates shared by social commentator VeryDarkBlackMan claim the kidnappers are now demanding an additional ₦50 million, blaming what they say was a shortfall from the first payment.
In response, the family has reportedly begun liquidating almost everything the victim owns; his car, his gas plant business, his home, and even a 100×100 plot of land assets built over years of sacrifice.
The family believes the current crisis began after ₦5.4 million from the original ransom was allegedly diverted. Harrision Gwamnishu has strongly denied the allegation, insisting he has evidence to prove his innocence and calling for fairness as the controversy unfolds.
A Larger Tragedy and Bigger Questions Beyond the accusations and counter-accusations, one heartbreaking reality remains: A man is still in captivity. A family is losing everything. And a community is left frightened and angry.
This case highlights several disturbing issues: How kidnappers continue to exploit families despite initial payments.
How public trust erodes when money meant to save lives becomes controversial, why victims’ families often face their battles alone.
The urgent need for stronger, faster security responses.
My perspective, no family should ever have to acuction off their future for a chance at survival.
While investigations should run their full course and no one should be condemned without evidence, the moral priority must remain clear:
The immediate rescue and safety of the hostage, full transparency on what happened with the ransoma
Accountability, wherever the facts eventually point at the heart of this story is not just controversy but a human life, a devastated family, and a society tired of living under the fear of abduction.
Authorities must act decisively, communicate clearly, and ensure that both the hostage and justice are not lost in the noise.
Until then, Nigerians continue to watch anxiously hoping this ordeal ends with clarity, truth, and a safe return for the kidnapped victim
