The long-running trial of 15 former aides to ex-First Lady Patience Jonathan has suffered yet another setback, as defense counsel Funmi Adedoyin voiced strong frustration over what she described as an “alarming pattern of delays.”
The defendants, who have been held at the Okaka Custodial Centre in Bayelsa State since 2019, are facing serious charges, including conspiracy, armed robbery, burglary, and the theft of luxury items reportedly worth N200 million ranging from gold jewellery to Samsung electronics and designer furniture.
Adedoyin disclosed that the case was most recently adjourned for the 42nd time on June 25 and 26, following the abduction of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court on June 21. The court has not resumed proceedings since the judge’s disappearance.
“They’ve been in custody for six years,” Adedoyin told Saturday PUNCH. “It’s disheartening. Justice delayed is justice denied. Over 40 adjournments in a single case is a grave injustice.”
Family members of the detained individuals have also expressed anguish over the prolonged delays. Gladys Achese, whose brother is among the accused, described the situation as “frustrating,” especially with the court’s annual recess in August fast approaching.
“We’re stuck in uncertainty,” she said. “Time keeps moving, and we don’t even know when the case will resume.”
Despite the setbacks, Adedoyin affirmed the legal team’s commitment to pursuing justice. “We will not relent,” she said. “This is not just about our clients it’s about upholding the integrity of the judicial system.”
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