NBA Clarifies Delay in Patience Jonathan’s Domestic Staff Trial

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, has clarified the reasons behind the prolonged trial of 13 domestic staff of former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, who have been held at the Okaka Correctional Centre in Yenagoa since 2019. The NBA explained that the delay is due to the complex nature of the case, which involves capital punishment and requires the presence of all defense lawyers before proceedings can continue.

The NBA Chairman for Yenagoa Branch, Mr. Somina Johnbull, made the revelation on Monday while addressing journalists about the branch’s upcoming activities for its annual law week. He noted that despite the gravity of the case, the court proceedings had been stalled due to the inability to assemble all the counsels representing the defendants.

Johnbull explained that the case involves 13 defendants, each represented by different lawyers, and that the trial has been delayed because all lawyers must be present for the case to proceed. He expressed regret over the continuous postponement, particularly given the modern facilities, including e-recording systems, available at the court.

“It is surprising that a matter of this magnitude has dragged on for this long in Bayelsa State, especially with the modern facilities that are now available,” Johnbull said.

He also addressed the issue of sensationalism surrounding the case. Johnbull revealed that during the last hearing in April, the court had voluntarily offered to recuse itself due to the public interest surrounding the case. However, the defendants chose to continue with the trial, expressing confidence in the court’s ability to deliver justice.