In a distressing development, reports have emerged alleging that former Nigerian First Lady, Patience Jonathan, has detained 15 of her domestic staff in Bayelsa State's Okaka Correctional Centre since 2019 over accusations of missing jewelry. The detained individuals, including domestic workers and relatives, have been incarcerated without conviction, raising significant human rights concerns.
According to Sahara Reporters, one of the detainees detailed severe torture allegedly supervised and participated in by Mrs. Jonathan herself. The victim recounted instances of brutal violence, stating, "Severe torture, which included hanging, beating with whips, sticks, machetes... Patience Jonathan repeatedly insisted angrily that the police were not doing enough torture to her satisfaction." The victim further alleged that on certain nights, Mrs. Jonathan actively took part in the abuse, using her high-heeled shoes to inflict harm.
The detainees have been held for nearly six years without a court conviction, as their trial has been repeatedly stalled. Sources indicate that the influential former First Lady has played a role in delaying the judicial process. Relatives of the detained workers have expressed frustration, noting that despite the lack of evidence, the case remains stagnant. One relative stated, "Since 2019, former First Lady Patience Jonathan has locked up about 16 of her domestic staff in Okaka Prison for allegedly stealing her jewelry, without first allowing a competent court of law to try them and sentence them."
The names of the detained workers include Williams Alami, Vincent Olabiyi, Ebuka Cosmos, John Dashe, Tamunokuro Abaku, Emmanuel Aginwa, Erema Deborah, Precious Kingsley, Tamunosiki Achese, Sunday Reginald, Vivian Golden, Emeka Benson, Boma Oba, Salomi Wareboka, and Sahabi Lima.
This situation has sparked outrage among human rights advocates, who are calling for immediate intervention to ensure a fair trial for the detained individuals. The prolonged detention without conviction and allegations of torture highlight significant concerns regarding the abuse of power and the need for judicial reform in Nigeria.
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