In a shocking revelation, former Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has been accused of preventing a domestic worker, detained since 2019 over allegations of missing jewellery, from attending the burial of her late daughter. This development has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
Reports indicate that the domestic worker, along with 14 others, has been held at the Okaka Correctional Centre in Bayelsa State for over five years without a conclusive trial. The workers were reportedly arrested following an alleged case of theft at one of Mrs. Jonathan's properties in Otuoke. Despite the lack of evidence and repeated delays in court proceedings, the workers remain incarcerated.
The latest incident involves one of the detained workers, who recently lost her daughter. Sources claim that efforts to secure temporary release for the grieving mother to attend her child's burial were obstructed by the former First Lady's influence. This act has drawn condemnation from human rights advocates, who describe it as a violation of basic human dignity and justice.
Legal experts and activists have called for an urgent review of the case, emphasizing the constitutional right to a fair trial and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Advocacy groups are also urging the judiciary to expedite the proceedings and ensure that justice is served without further delay.