What You Need to Know About Patience Jonathan and Her Detained Ex Aides
Patience Jonathan’s former domestic workers have been detained in prison for six years due to allegations of stealing jewelry and other valuables.
The 15 workers were arrested in 2019 after a reported break-in at one of Jonathan’s apartments in Otuoke, Bayelsa State. They were accused of stealing:
Jewelry and Valuables: Seven gold bangles, five Samsung air conditioners, two sets of upholstery chairs, and six Samsung flat-screen televisions valued at N200 million
Criminal Charges: 18 counts of conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit felony, and burglary
The workers claim they were tortured and threatened while in detention, with some alleging they were not working in the apartment where the alleged break-in occurred.
Despite efforts by human rights organizations to secure their release on bail, the workers remain in detention, with their case adjourned over 40 times between 2019 and 2025.
Patience Jonathan’s former domestic workers have been detained in prison for six years due to allegations of stealing jewelry and other valuables.
The 15 workers were arrested in 2019 after a reported break-in at one of Jonathan’s apartments in Otuoke, Bayelsa State. They were accused of stealing items valued at N200 million, including:
Jewelry and Valuables: Seven gold bangles, five Samsung air conditioners, two sets of upholstery chairs, and six Samsung flat-screen televisions.
Criminal Charges: 18 counts of conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit felony, and burglary
Despite the serious allegations, the workers claim they were tortured and threatened while in detention, and their trial has faced repeated delays due to adjournments.
In fact, the case has been adjourned over 40 times since 2019, sparking concerns about justice and abuse of power.
Concerns and Allegations
Lack of Evidence: The workers claim there’s no evidence to prove their guilt, and the police have yet to present any witnesses.
Influence Peddling: Relatives of the accused allege that Patience Jonathan is using her influence to frustrate the trial.
Human Rights Violations: The detainees’ families and human rights organizations are demanding urgent judicial intervention to uphold the rights of the accused and ensure justice is served.
Current Status
The case is ongoing, with efforts by human rights organizations to secure the release of the defendants on bail being frustrated.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has not issued an official statement on the matter.
Tolu Adebayo
Reporter/Social Media Manager
