YENAGOA, Bayelsa – A shocking revelation has emerged from a handwritten note obtained by SaharaReporters, detailing allegations of brutal torture orchestrated by former First Lady Patience Jonathan against 15 domestic workers. The workers have been imprisoned since 2019 over unproven allegations of stealing her jewelry.
According to the note, Patience Jonathan personally supervised and participated in the torture of the detainees. The alleged abuse included hanging, beating with whips, sticks, and machetes. The former First Lady reportedly instructed police to intensify the torture, expressing dissatisfaction with their efforts.
One of the most disturbing claims is that Patience Jonathan used her high-heeled shoes to brutalize the workers during midnight sessions at her husband's house in Yenagoa. She allegedly delegated ASP Collins Otutu, her husband's chief security officer, to oversee the police and ensure aggressive torture.
The workers have been languishing in Okaka Correctional Centre without a conviction, despite constitutional guarantees of a fair trial. Their detention has been prolonged due to repeated delays in the trial, allegedly on Patience Jonathan's instructions.
The case has sparked widespread concern, with sources calling for urgent intervention to address the apparent miscarriage of justice. Relatives of the detained workers have expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the case, citing a lack of evidence and the absence of witnesses.
The detained workers include Williams Alami, Vincent Olabiyi, Ebuka Cosmos, John Dashe, Tamunokuro Abaku, Sahabi Lima, Emmanuel Aginwa, Erema Deborah, Precious Kingsley, Tamunosiki Achese, Salomi Wareboka, Sunday Reginald, Boma Oba, Vivian Golden, and Emeka Benson.
This development adds a new layer of controversy to the case, highlighting allegations of abuse of power and human rights violations. The situation underscores the need for a thorough investigation and judicial action to ensure justice for the detained workers.