Kidnapped Edo Woman, Aisha Wahab, Regains Freedom After Weeks in Captivity

After weeks of fear and uncertainty, Aisha Wahab, a young woman who was abducted in Auchi, Edo State, has finally regained her freedom.

According to reports, Aisha was kidnapped several weeks ago by unknown gunmen who demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for her release. During her captivity, the abductors released several disturbing videos showing the visibly distressed victim pleading for her life — one of which was shared online by popular human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu. In the clips, Aisha was seen crying and begging Nigerians to help secure her release as her captors threatened to kill her if their demands were not met.

In a heartwarming update on Wednesday, Gwamnishu confirmed that Aisha has been freed. The activist posted a video showing Aisha reunited with her mother, both overcome with emotion as they celebrated her safe return.

However, as of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the ₦20 million ransom was paid or if her release came through police intervention or community negotiations. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the circumstances surrounding her freedom.

Relief and Reactions Across Social Media

The news of Aisha’s release has sparked widespread joy and relief online. Many Nigerians took to social media to thank God for her safety while expressing frustration over the worsening security situation across the country.

User @FIRDAUS3 wrote:

“May we never experience kidnapping. It’s one of the most traumatic ways to live. Thank God she’s back home alive.”

Another commenter, @Willy2025, added:

“We thank God she was released alive. But this menace must be tackled collectively — there are often local collaborators helping these criminals.”

Others used the opportunity to call out government inaction. @HopeNeverDies lamented:

“It’s 2025, and we’re still battling kidnappers hiding in bushes. Nigeria keeps moving in mysterious ways.”

While the majority celebrated Aisha’s freedom, a few commenters expressed skepticism about the circumstances of her abduction, though others quickly condemned such remarks as insensitive given her ordeal.

Ongoing Concerns Over Rising Kidnappings

Aisha’s case is one of many recent abductions reported across Edo State and other parts of Nigeria, underscoring the growing insecurity that has plagued the country in recent years. Kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common, affecting students, travelers, and even residents in their homes.

Security analysts and activists continue to urge federal and state governments to implement stronger security measures, invest in intelligence gathering, and support local policing efforts to curb the menace.

For Aisha and her family, however, the nightmare is finally over. Her safe return is being celebrated as a rare moment of hope amid Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against insecurity.

🎥 Watch the video shared by Harrison Gwamnishu: YouTube Link