In a statement that has sparked controversy, Nigerian activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has demanded the imprisonment of former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, following the sentencing of 15 domestic staff members. The staff were recently convicted and sentenced to over six years in prison for allegedly stealing jewelry worth over N750 million from Mrs. Jonathan’s residence.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the scale of the theft and the severe punishment handed down to the domestic workers. According to reports, the jewelry, which was allegedly stolen by the staff members, was valued at more than N750 million. However, Sowore believes that the staff are being unfairly punished, and the real culprits—the individuals who funded and acquired such wealth—have gone unscathed.
On his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sowore shared his thoughts on the issue, claiming that the staff were merely being used as scapegoats. He suggested that Patience Jonathan should herself face legal consequences for her actions. Sowore’s post reads: “Former Nigerian first lady Patience Jonathan has detained 15 domestic staff members for over six years while awaiting trial for allegedly stealing N750m worth of jewelry from her.”
The activist further questioned the source of Patience Jonathan’s wealth, suggesting that it is suspicious for a former public figure to possess such expensive items. “Where did she get the funds to purchase jewelry valued at N750 million?” Sowore wrote. His statement casts a critical light on the former First Lady’s finances, prompting many to question the legality of her wealth accumulation during her husband’s tenure as president.
Sowore also emphasized the broader implications of the case, highlighting the inconsistency in Nigeria’s legal system. He criticized the country’s tendency to punish those accused of stealing public funds while those at the top—who may be involved in far greater financial mismanagement—remain untouched. “Nigeria appears to be the only country where alleged public treasury looters have the audacity to arrest others accused of stealing a portion of the funds they themselves looted from the public treasury,” Sowore remarked in his post.
The activist’s statement has stirred public debate, with many supporting his call for accountability at the highest levels of government. Sowore concluded his remarks by urging Nigerians to stand up against what he described as “unjustified prosecution” of the domestic staff. “We must do everything to get them released from unjustified prosecution. Patience Jonathan should be the one in prison,” he added, reinforcing his position on the matter.
Peace OdekunleApril 5, 20252 Mins read
