Kidnap Victim Regains Freedom After Two Weeks In Captivity As Edo Govt, Police Allegedly Ignore Rescue Pleas

Benin, Edo State– After two weeks in captivity, Wahab Aisha, who was kidnapped at Igbira Camp in Auchi, Edo State, has regained her freedom — but not without controversy surrounding the alleged lack of support from the Edo State Government and the police.

Human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, confirmed Aisha’s release in a statement on Saturday.

He disclosed that Aisha was freed late Friday night in Okpella, Edo State, after enduring a harrowing trek with her abductors.

“Thankfully, she regained her freedom last night. Sadly, 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.

He explained that technical equipment needed for the rescue operation could only be deployed with official authorisation which was not granted despite multiple appeals to the state authorities.

“It should be on record that Aisha was kidnapped at Igbira Camp, Auchi, and released last night in Okpella. Those familiar with the area can attest to the long distance between Auchi and Okpella — a journey the victim was forced to trek alongside her abductors,” he added.

According to Gwamnishu, his team has now withdrawn from Edo State due to what he described as a lack of cooperation from the government and police, stating that their operations are better supported in other states where security agencies collaborate with them.

“To everyone who stood by Aisha’s family during this difficult time, thank you sincerely,” he said.

“This is another reminder that security requires partnership between citizens, government, and volunteers like us. We remain ready to assist, but we cannot do it alone.”

Gwamnishu called for immediate government intervention, improved coordination of field operations, and full support for law enforcement to prevent further tragedies.

“Enough talk — take action now. There are several proven avenues to capture these kidnappers. Lives are at stake,” he added.