# Harrison Gwamnishu

Harrison Gwamnishu (born 17 July 1989) is a Nigerian human rights activist, social entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Gwamnishu is known for raising awareness about social justice issues, wrongful incarceration, legal reforms, and the well-being of prisoners.

## Early life

Harrison Gwamnishu was born in Ubulu Ukwu, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State Nigeria.

## Career and Advocacy

Gwamnishu rose to prominence for his advocacy work on behalf of prisoners, particularly those who have been unjustly incarcerated. Through his organization Behind Bar Human Rights Foundation, he has worked to highlight the harsh conditions faced by prisoners in Nigerian jails and to provide assistance in securing justice for individuals who have been wrongfully imprisoned. His work extends to raising awareness about human rights violations, and advocating for systemic reforms within Nigeria's legal and prison systems. Among his significant contributions is his involvement in the case of Ada Jesus, and the high-profile missing person cases of Celine Ndudim and Afiba Tandoh.
Harrison Gwamnishu entered politics as a candidate for the Labour Party during the 2023 Delta State House of Assembly elections, representing the Aniocha South Constituency. Although he lost this election, his participation marked his initial foray into public office. Afterward, he pulled out, announcing his resignation from the Labour Party, citing persistent allegations that he betrayed the party during the campaign. He expressed regret in a social media statement but noted that staying with the party could harm his reputation. He reaffirmed his commitment to the "Obidient Movement," inspired by Peter Obi. Gwamnishu thanked the party leadership for their support and pledged to cooperate with investigations to clear his name.
In August 2024, Gwamnishu was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Civil Society and Youth Mobilization to the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.

## Controversy

As a vocal advocate against human rights abuses, Gwamnishu has frequently clashed with law enforcement agencies. In 2020, he was reportedly detained by police in connection with his public criticisms of police brutality in Nigeria. In February 2024, Harrison accused officers from the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) of extorting ₦3.15 million from a resident in Auchi, Edo State.
In July 2024, Harrison Gwamnishu publicly criticized Nigerian police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi for remarks concerning the death of Erasmus Emeya, a 33-year-old detainee. Emeya's mother alleged that her son was tortured to death while in police custody. However, Adejobi stated that Emeya died of asphyxiation and not from torture, based on an autopsy result. Adejobi also described Emeya as a cultist and rapist. Gwamnishu condemned Adejobi's statements, accusing the police of prematurely labeling Emeya without a conviction and neglecting thorough investigations.
On 24 October 2024, the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), issued a statement demanding an immediate retraction and apology from Harrison Gwamnishu for allegedly defamatory remarks about the institution. The controversy arose after Gwamnishu shared a viral video online, claiming that a student had been beaten to death by unknown assailants on the university's premises. UNN refuted these allegations, labeling them as false and damaging to the institution's reputation.

## Assassination attempt

In June 2021, Harrison Gwamnishu escaped an assassination attempt. According to his account, he was pursued by armed men in a black Hilux van marked with "Police" while driving near the Asaba International Airport. Gwamnishu noticed the vehicle trailing him and began filming the incident with his phone. The armed men, dressed in black and reportedly carrying AK-47 rifles, pointed a weapon at him and attempted to shoot. He swerved his vehicle to evade them and escaped. Gwamnishu described the incident as the second attempt on his life and called on the Delta State Police Command to investigate and identify those responsible.

## Philanthropy

In 2021, he started volunteering for Widows in Nigeria, a nonprofit that aims to empower people to prevent violence and promote sustainable development.

## Recognitions

* 2022: Nominated for Human Rights Crusader of the Year Leadership Excellence Awards. By Igbere Tv.
* 2023:Nominated for Humanitarian of the Year Nigeria Achievers Awards.
* 2024: Recognised as Human Rights Activist of the Year The Golden Stars Awards.