Fifteen former domestic staff members of Nigeria’s ex-First Lady, Patience Jonathan, have been detained at the Okaka Custodial Centre in Bayelsa State since 2019 without conviction. They face charges including theft, conspiracy to commit murder, armed robbery, and burglary, stemming from allegations of stealing jewelry and luxury items valued at approximately ₦200 million from one of Jonathan’s properties in Otuoke.
The legal proceedings have experienced significant delays, with over 40 court adjournments. Families of the accused have expressed frustration, noting that the prolonged detention has taken a toll on their well-being. They also highlight that Patience Jonathan has not appeared in court since the case began, raising concerns about the fairness and progress of the trial.
Legal advocacy groups, such as Tech4Justice, have criticized the slow pace of the judicial process and the severity of the charges. Funmi Adedoyin, a legal associate with the group, pointed out that many adjournments resulted from the absence of police witnesses and emphasized the disproportionate nature of the charges, suggesting they were intended to prevent bail.
As the detainees continue to await trial, calls for a fair and expedited judicial process have intensified. The case underscores broader issues within the Nigerian legal system, particularly concerning prolonged pre-trial detentions and the need for timely justice.
