Recent reports have brought to light serious allegations against Nigeria’s former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, suggesting that 15 of her domestic staff have been unlawfully detained since 2019 over accusations of theft. These individuals are purportedly being held in connection with the alleged theft of jewelry and other valuables from Mrs. Jonathan’s residence in Otuoke, Bayelsa State.​Nairaland

Background of the Allegations

In July 2019, it was reported that domestic workers and relatives of former President Goodluck Jonathan were arrested and investigated over stolen valuables, including jewelry worth over ₦300 million, from the former President’s home in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area. The suspects allegedly broke into the residence and stole items, including customized walking sticks. ​Nairaland

An individual identified as PIDOMNIGERIA, who visited the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Okaka, Bayelsa State, claimed that the following individuals have been detained since 2019:​Nairaland

• Golden Vivian​Nairaland
• Erama Deborah​BBC News+4Nairaland+4Legit.ng – Nigeria news.+4
• Precious Kingsley​Nairaland
• Vincent Olabiyi​BBC News+2Nairaland+2Legit.ng – Nigeria news.+2
• Ebuka Cosmos​Nairaland
• Williams Alamo​Nairaland
• Tamunokuro Abaku​Nairaland+1WITHIN NIGERIA+1
• Boma Oba​Nairaland
• Emmanuel Aginwa​Nairaland+1WITHIN NIGERIA+1
• Emeka Benson​Nairaland
• Tamunosiki Achese Frisberesima​Nairaland
• Wariboko Salome​Nairaland
• Sahabi Lima​Nairaland
• Reginald Sunday​Nairaland
• John Dashe​Nairaland

The source expressed concern over the prolonged detention of these individuals without trial, suggesting that Mrs. Jonathan has used her influence to ensure their continued incarceration. ​Nairaland

Legal and Human Rights Implications

The prolonged detention of individuals without formal charges or trial raises significant legal and human rights concerns. Under Nigerian law, suspects are entitled to be charged promptly and tried within a reasonable time frame. Extended detention without trial contravenes these legal provisions and international human rights standards.​

In a related incident, in September 2022, Mrs. Jonathan’s staff member, Tamunoala Alatoru, was arrested over allegations of negligence following the theft of jewelry and money from Mrs. Jonathan’s residence in Port Harcourt. Despite the primary suspect, a cleaner named Praise Gelson, confessing to the crime and stating that Alatoru had no involvement, Alatoru was detained for over a month without access to medication for underlying health conditions. Legal representatives filed petitions citing unlawful detention and health concerns. Eventually, Alatoru was charged in court alongside others, facing counts including conspiracy and armed robbery. ​WITHIN NIGERIA

Previous Allegations and Investigations

Mrs. Jonathan has faced multiple allegations and investigations in the past. In 2016, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) froze $15 million in bank accounts linked to her, suspecting the funds were proceeds of corruption. Mrs. Jonathan claimed the money was for her medical expenses and accused the EFCC of conducting an unjustified witch-hunt against her. ​Legit.ng – Nigeria news.+2BBC News+2Punch Newspapers+2

Furthermore, in 2018, the EFCC interrogated prison officials over an alleged ₦300 million contract awarded to companies linked to Mrs. Jonathan for supplying beddings and fencing prison facilities. The contracts were reportedly given to companies that were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, raising questions about their legitimacy. ​Punch Newspapers

Calls for Investigation and Due Process

The recent allegations regarding the detention of Mrs. Jonathan’s domestic staff have prompted calls from human rights organizations and legal practitioners for a thorough investigation. They emphasize the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status, are subject to due process.​

Legal experts highlight that if the detained individuals have been held without formal charges or trial since 2019, it constitutes a grave violation of their fundamental human rights. They urge the relevant authorities to review the cases, provide the detainees with legal representation, and either charge them formally or release them without further delay.​

Conclusion

The allegations against Dame Patience Jonathan concerning the unlawful detention of her domestic staff underscore the need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal procedures in Nigeria’s justice system. As the situation unfolds, it remains imperative for the authorities to address these claims promptly, ensuring that justice is served and the rights of all individuals are protected.​

SOURCES