Bayelsa NCoS Addresses Illegal Detention of Patience Jonathan’s Ex-Aides
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Bayelsa has responded to allegations that former First Lady Patience Jonathan illegally detained 15 of her former domestic workers at the Okaka Custodial Centre.
The allegations claimed that the workers were accused of stealing valuables, including seven gold bangles, five Samsung air conditioners, two sets of upholstery chairs, and six Samsung flat-screen televisions, collectively worth N200 million.
They were also said to be facing 18 charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, felony, and burglary.
In response to these claims, the NCoS has strongly denied the accusations. In a statement issued on Sunday, Isari Gbosi Tombara, the spokesperson for the Okaka Custodial Centre, dismissed the allegations as “unfounded” and aimed at damaging the reputation of the correctional service.
Tombara also addressed rumors about a supposed closed-door meeting between Patience Jonathan and senior NCoS officials, confirming that no such meeting had occurred.
The NCoS emphasized that the detained workers have been treated humanely and in full respect of their rights while in custody.
Tombara pointed out that the workers had been in court on March 10 and 11, 2025, and had their most recent court appearance on April 3, 2025. The case was adjourned to April 17, 2025.
Further clarifying the situation, Tombara stressed that no person could be admitted to any custodial centre in Nigeria without a valid remand warrant from a court of law.
He confirmed that the detainees were remanded in custody only after the proper legal procedures were followed, ensuring their detention was completely lawful.
Tombara also reassured the public that the Okaka Medium Security Custodial Centre remains one of the most peaceful facilities in the country, urging people to disregard the misleading reports.
The NCoS reiterated its commitment to ensuring the humane treatment of all detainees and reaffirmed its focus on the reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of individuals into society under the leadership of acting Controller-General Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.
The NCoS concluded by urging the public to ignore any erroneous reports, asserting that their operations are fully transparent, lawful, and aligned with justice.
