The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Bayelsa State Command, has refuted social media reports alleging the illegal detention of 15 domestic staff of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Okaka.
The denial was made in a statement issued on Sunday, April 6, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC I G.T. Isari.
“These statements are unfounded and are being spread to tarnish the image of the Nigerian Correctional Service,” the statement read.
The Command clarified that the individuals in question were legally remanded by High Court 1 of Bayelsa State and have been attending court proceedings.
It confirmed their appearances on March 10, March 11, and most recently, April 3, 2025. Their next court date is set for April 17.
READ ALSO: Correctional Service Debunks Report on Ayomide Adeleye’s Custody
“The said inmates have been treated fairly and humanely while in custody, and their fundamental human rights are respected,” Isari added.
Dismissing claims of a secret meeting between Dame Patience Jonathan and senior correctional officials, the NCoS insisted that no person can be admitted into any custodial facility in Nigeria without a valid remand warrant issued by a court.
It also described the Okaka facility as one of the most peaceful custodial centres in the country and advised the public to disregard what it called “fabricated” reports intended to incite unrest.
The statement further affirmed the Service’s commitment to the rule of law.
“The Service under the leadership of Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, remains committed to the safe, humane, and lawful custody of inmates as well as their reformation and reintegration into society,” it concluded.