Detained Since 2019: Workers Accuse Patience Jonathan of Supervising Brutal Torture

A former domestic worker, imprisoned since 2019 at the behest of Nigeria’s former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, has come forward with disturbing allegations of brutal torture endured during detention. The shocking claims, detailed in a handwritten note reportedly obtained by SaharaReporters, point to the former First Lady’s direct involvement in supervising and participating in the abuse.

The note, authored by one of the detainees at Okaka Correctional Centre in Bayelsa State, alleges that Patience Jonathan personally oversaw and took part in the violent treatment of domestic workers who have been held without trial for nearly six years.

According to the account, the detainees were subjected to severe forms of torture, including hanging, whipping, and assault with sticks and machetes. The note further alleges that the former First Lady was dissatisfied with the level of brutality executed by the police, prompting her to demand an escalation of the abuse.

One particularly harrowing episode involved Patience Jonathan allegedly using her high-heeled shoes to strike the victims repeatedly. The detainee also implicated ASP Collins Otutu, the chief security officer to Patience Jonathan’s husband, in orchestrating the abuse. The note claims that Otutu would often arrive at the scene intoxicated, bringing alcohol for other officers involved.

The case dates back to 2019 when the 15 domestic workers were arrested following a reported robbery involving missing jewelry belonging to the former First Lady. Despite the presumption of innocence under the constitution, the detainees have remained in Okaka Correctional Centre without conviction or a fair trial.

Legal sources familiar with the case have expressed concern over the prolonged detention, citing deliberate delays allegedly influenced by Patience Jonathan. In addition, a relative of one of the detainees revealed that despite the lack of evidence, the case remains stalled, with authorities reportedly waiting for witnesses.

The detainees, whose names have been disclosed, continue to languish in prison without justice, as the controversy surrounding their detention and alleged mistreatment intensifies.