A fresh hearing date has finally been set in the long-running trial of former domestic workers of ex–First Lady Patience Jonathan, following renewed public attention and pressure over the case.
A source told SaharaReporters that the court has adjourned proceedings to May 22, 2026, after weeks of uncertainty and claims that efforts were made to delay the trial.
“The new date is May 22. The Chief Judge later yielded to pressure from the media, especially SaharaReporters,” the source said.
The development comes amid allegations from family members of the detained workers, who accuse authorities in Bayelsa State of interfering in the case to keep the defendants in custody.
The workers have been in detention since 2019 over allegations of stealing jewellery belonging to the former First Lady. Their families say the case has been repeatedly delayed through adjournments, missing judges, and stalled proceedings.
One of the defendants, Sahabi Liman, has reportedly died in custody after a prolonged illness, sparking further outrage. Relatives claim his health deteriorated due to poor conditions and lack of adequate medical care.
During court sessions, some of the accused reportedly alleged that they were tortured into signing confessional statements, claims which include accusations against certain police officers and security aides.
Despite these allegations, no known investigation has been conducted into the claims of abuse, raising concerns about accountability in the justice process.
The trial, which has lasted over five years, is still awaiting proper continuation as questions persist over fairness, delays, and alleged external influence.
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