Breaking Silence: NCoS Clears Air On Alleged Illegal Jailing OF Patience Jonathan’s Former Loyalists

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Bayelsa State has denied allegations that former First Lady Patience Jonathan was involved in the illegal detention of 15 of her ex-domestic staff at the Okaka Custodial Centre.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to reports making rounds, the 15 individuals—allegedly detained since 2019—were accused of stealing luxury items valued at ₦200 million, including seven gold bangles, five Samsung air conditioners, two sets of upholstery chairs, and six Samsung flat-screen TVs. They were reportedly charged with 18 offenses, including conspiracy to commit murder, burglary, and other felonies.

However, the Bayelsa Command of the NCoS dismissed the claims as baseless. In a statement released on Sunday, spokesperson Isari Gbosi Tombara described the reports as “false and misleading,” meant to discredit the image of the correctional service.

Tombara also addressed rumors of a secret meeting between Patience Jonathan and high-ranking prison officials in Bayelsa, labeling the reports as fabricated and untrue.

He emphasized that the detained individuals are being held lawfully and have been treated with dignity and respect in line with their constitutional rights. “They appeared in court on March 10th and 11th, and again on April 3rd, 2025. The case has now been adjourned to April 17th,” Tombara noted.

He clarified that no person can be held in any custodial center in Nigeria without a valid remand warrant issued by a competent court. All 15 individuals were committed to custody legally, and their detention followed due judicial process.

“The Command wishes to stress that no one is illegally detained at our facility,” the statement added, assuring the public that Okaka Custodial Centre remains peaceful and professionally managed.

Tombara reiterated the NCoS’s commitment—under the leadership of Acting Controller-General Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche—to uphold humane, safe, and lawful incarceration while focusing on the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society.

The Service urged the public to disregard the false reports and assured that its operations are transparent, accountable, and anchored on justice.