NBA Breaks Silence: Why Patience Jonathan’s Domestic Staff Trial Is Still On Hold!

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, has shed light on the prolonged delay in the trial of 13 domestic staff members of former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. The individuals have remained in custody at the Okaka Correctional Centre in Yenagoa since 2019.

According to the NBA, the main cause of the delay stems from procedural difficulties, particularly the involvement of a large number of defence lawyers. Given that the case involves charges that carry capital punishment, court proceedings require the presence of all counsel representing the defendants.

NBA Yenagoa Branch Chairman, Somina Johnbull, explained that the trial has repeatedly stalled due to the absence of one or more lawyers at each court sitting.

“In the case you mentioned, I can confirm that the NBA conducted an investigation and engaged with all the lawyers involved. The delay is not attributable to the court,” Johnbull stated.

He added that each of the 13 defendants has individual legal representation, making it impossible to proceed whenever any counsel is absent.

“Any day a lawyer is not in court, the matter cannot move forward,” he emphasized, also clarifying that the court has consistently been ready to hear the case.

Johnbull expressed dismay over the duration of the trial, pointing out that such delays are uncommon in Bayelsa, especially with the introduction of modern judicial tools like electronic recording systems.

“In Bayelsa, it is quite rare for any matter to linger beyond three to four years due to the advanced facilities in place,” he remarked.

He further disclosed that during the most recent court session in April, the court offered to withdraw from the case in light of increased public scrutiny. However, the defendants unanimously requested that the trial continue, reaffirming their confidence in the court’s impartiality.

“All the defendants insisted that they wanted the case to go on and expressed faith in the judiciary,” he said.

Johnbull made these comments during a press briefing on the upcoming annual Law Week of the NBA Yenagoa Branch.

The event is scheduled for Friday, May 16, 2025, and will feature former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as the keynote speaker. His address will focus on the theme: “Setting the Pace: Law, Leadership, and Transformational Development.”

Mr. Iniruo Wills, Chairman of the Law Week Planning Committee, said the theme was chosen to explore critical issues surrounding governance, rule of law, and access to justice.

“This year’s discussions will revolve around the role of the legal system in maintaining peace, ensuring justice, and driving effective governance,” Wills noted.

He emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and public satisfaction in promoting good governance and legal reform.