“He Must Pay” — Ex-Friend Shames Harrison Gwamnishu Over Five-Year ₦2 Million Debt

The drama surrounding activist Harrison Gwamnishu has deepened after a man identifying himself as a former friend publicly accused him of owing a sizable ₦2 million debt — a sum allegedly outstanding for nearly five years. The revelation adds a new dimension to an already controversial saga, coming just as Gwamnishu faces more serious allegations tied to ransom-money diversion in Edo State.

The accuser, who goes by Shine Onyeigba on Facebook, turned to social media to demand repayment. According to him, Gwamnishu had borrowed the money years ago. In a now-viral post, Onyeigba offered to accept installments — suggesting a monthly repayment of ₦100,000 — but insisted the debt must be cleared. “He used to be my friend and I have nothing against him,” Onyeigba wrote, adding: “But as for my money, he must pay it.”

Onyeigba further addressed supporters of the embattled activist, issuing a blunt warning: “As for his gullible followers … if e reach your turn, forget your money with your debtors.” His post and tone reflect frustration — not personal vendetta — but a sense of principle, that overdue debts must be settled regardless of the person involved.

Social media and local press have not taken long to amplify the accusation. For many, this new claim compounds the doubts already swirling around Gwamnishu, who is under fire for allegedly diverting part of a ransom payout meant to free a kidnapped Edo couple. That earlier allegation triggered his arrest in Benin, Edo State — a move reportedly instigated by yet another controversial public figure, VeryDarkMan, who says he initiated the call to police.

Gwamnishu, however, has denied both the ransom-skimming and any misconduct. In a video post, he claimed the rescue mission was strictly voluntary, asserting he never asked for payment. He maintained that no funds were stolen, and that the failed rescue had more to do with the kidnappers’ refusal than any logistical or financial misstep on his part. “If I were after money, I could have asked for 100 million,” he declared.

Nonetheless, critics have pointed to more than one past allegation of financial impropriety. A separate case involving funds meant for ailing Nollywood actor Kingsley Orji resurfaced, in which Gwamnishu was accused of withholding money donated for the actor’s medical treatment. Though he defended his actions, explaining the money was misused by the beneficiary, suspicions linger.

The timing of Onyeigba’s debt claim — coming amid the ransom-diversion scandal — has sparked debate online. Some netizens question why the demand for repayment surfaces now. Others argue that regardless of timing, outstanding debts deserve closure. As reactions pour in, the consistency of the narrative around Gwamnishu — especially when it comes to money matters — has come under renewed scrutiny.

Meanwhile, those close to the story have described Gwamnishu’s recent actions as part of a pattern: luring people in with promises of activism-driven rescue or help, then failing to deliver or meet financial obligations. One man who claimed Gwamnishu helped recover owed money for his brother alleged that after securing the funds, Gwamnishu refused to hand them over as agreed — later blocking contact on social platforms. That case reportedly dragged on for more than a year.

As tension mounts, many observers are calling for Gwamnishu to come clean publicly — not just about the ransom case, but about the alleged personal debts before him. The question now is whether he will respond to the ₦2 million demand the way he responded to the larger ransom allegations: by denying wrongdoing, blaming circumstances, or offering restitution. Either way, his public standing seems to be sliding deeper into controversy.

For now, Onyeigba’s message — simple but resonant — echoes online: “He must pay.” And for many watching, that may be as much about accountability as about money.