Nigerian Correctional Service Denies Allegations of Illegal Detention of Patience Jonathan’s Ex-Staff in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Bayelsa State Command, has firmly denied reports alleging that 15 former domestic staff of Nigeria’s former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, are being held illegally at the Okaka Medium Security Custodial Centre.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, the facility’s spokesperson, Isari Gbosi Tombara, described the viral reports as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to “tarnish the good image” of the correctional system.

“The rumour purporting that the former First Lady has detained these individuals since 2019 for theft, and that she held a closed-door meeting with top correctional officials, is entirely unfounded,” Tombara stated.

Context of the Case: Gold Theft Allegations and 18-Count Charge

The individuals in question have been in custody since 2019 in connection with the alleged theft of gold jewellery, electronics, and home appliances reportedly valued at ₦200 million. They face an 18-count charge including conspiracy to commit murder, burglary, and other felonies.

According to court records cited in the NCoS statement, the accused were legally remanded by High Court 1 of Bayelsa State and have been appearing for trial regularly.

“They were in court on March 10 and 11, and again on April 3, 2025, when the matter was adjourned to April 17,” the correctional service noted, emphasizing that the inmates’ fundamental human rights have not been violated.

No Meeting With Patience Jonathan, Officials Insist

The command also dismissed claims of a secret meeting between Patience Jonathan and custodial officers, calling the reports “a concoction” aimed at stirring public sentiment and sowing distrust.

“For the avoidance of doubt, no such meeting ever occurred. These inmates were remanded legally and are being held in accordance with the law,” Tombara emphasized.

He added that no individual can be held without a valid court-issued remand warrant, reinforcing that Okaka remains one of the most peaceful correctional facilities in the country.

Maintaining Standards Amid Public Scrutiny

The NCoS reiterated its commitment to the safe, humane custody and rehabilitation of inmates, in line with national correctional protocols and under the directive of Acting Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.

“We urge the public to disregard such sensationalist reports, which are not only inaccurate but aimed at destabilizing a system that is already functioning within the rule of law,” the statement concluded.

Background

Rumors began circulating earlier this month suggesting that the 15 individuals were being detained indefinitely on the orders of the former First Lady, who allegedly accused them of theft during her time in office. The claims quickly went viral, prompting public outcry and scrutiny over the role of influential figures in the justice system.

As the case continues, all eyes will remain on the Bayelsa judiciary and correctional system for further developments.

Burna Boy’s ‘Lamborghini’ Diss Track Ignites Firestorm Online After Viral Preview

LAGOS, NIGERIA — Grammy award-winning singer Burna Boy is once again dominating headlines and timelines after previewing his fiery new diss track titled “Lamborghini”—a bold response to the controversy involving Lagos-based socialite, Sophia Egbueje.

The artist, known for his genre-defying sound and outspoken persona, shared a snippet of the unreleased track during a club appearance, where he was seen dancing with visible excitement as the song blared through the speakers. The moment was captured in a now-viral video, triggering an avalanche of online reactions and debates over the song’s message and intent.

The track appears to be a direct clapback at Egbueje, who earlier accused Burna Boy in a leaked audio of promising—but failing—to gift her a Lamborghini. The clip sparked days of gossip and speculation across social media. In response, Burna Boy took the drama a step further by debuting the diss track live during a music concert in Kenya, drawing both applause and criticism.

From Club to Concert Stage: Diss Track Goes Global

The “Lamborghini” performance has since gone global, with fans and critics dissecting every line for hidden jabs and lyrical shade. While Burna Boy hasn’t officially addressed the situation beyond the music, his actions speak volumes—and the timing of the track’s preview suggests a calculated media moment.

Mixed Reactions: “Where’s the Substance?”

Reactions to the preview have been divided, with some fans praising the energy of the track, while others questioned the depth of the lyrics—especially in light of Burna Boy’s previous comments on the lack of substance in today’s music.

“After this one, he’ll still say other people’s music has no substance—meanwhile he’s singing ‘dem dey for there’,” one user, Ghost Boy, commented.

Ejimo echoed the sentiment, stating: “Burna said in an interview that most songs have no meaning. I wonder what this song is about.”

Some fans, however, were more amused than critical. “All of them pass the vibes ,” wrote God Pikin, seemingly unbothered by the controversy.

Others, like Imere, were less forgiving: “This song is the worst from any artist in the history of Nigeria. One day, outsiders will tell Burna the truth.”

The Bigger Picture: PR Stunt or Artistic Expression?

With “Lamborghini”, Burna Boy once again blurs the line between personal drama and artistic expression. Some industry watchers believe the move is a strategic PR play designed to generate buzz ahead of a new project. Others argue it’s a genuine expression of frustration from an artist unwilling to remain silent when dragged into gossip.

Either way, Burna Boy has succeeded in reclaiming the narrative—turning scandal into spectacle.

As fans await the full release of “Lamborghini”, one thing is clear: whether you love him or loathe him, Burna Boy knows how to stay at the center of the conversation.

Fury Erupts in South Africa as Calls for Nigerian Pastor’s Deportation Intensify After Shocking Acquittal

Gqeberha, South Africa – Outrage is sweeping across South Africa following the controversial acquittal of Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso on rape and human trafficking charges. The verdict, handed down by the Gqeberha High Court on Wednesday, has sparked a firestorm of criticism, with political groups and civil society demanding his immediate deportation.

Omotoso, who spent eight years behind bars alongside his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, was released after a lengthy and troubled trial. His sudden freedom has ignited protests, with many South Africans accusing the justice system of failing victims of sexual abuse.

The country’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has come under heavy scrutiny, admitting that delays in the trial caused key witnesses to withdraw, making it difficult to secure a conviction. Luxolo Tyali, the NPA spokesperson, stated, “Some witnesses no longer wanted to proceed with giving evidence, as they have moved on with their lives and do not want to relive their experiences in court.”

Despite the court’s ruling, reports indicate that authorities are considering deporting Omotoso back to Nigeria, though official confirmation remains pending.

Political Groups Demand Swift Deportation

Leading the charge for Omotoso’s removal is ActionSA, a political party founded by former Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba. The party issued a scathing statement, condemning religious leaders who exploit faith for personal gain and demanding the pastor’s immediate expulsion.

“ActionSA firmly opposes the infiltration of South Africa by dubious entrepreneurs and self-proclaimed ‘biblepreneurs’ who prey on hard-working and unsuspecting citizens,” the group declared.

The statement further emphasized, “Omotoso has no place in our country. He has been accused of heinous crimes, including human trafficking and sexual assault involving vulnerable women and minors.”

ActionSA has called on immigration officials to revoke Omotoso’s residency, place him on the national sex offenders’ register, and bar him from any position granting him access to vulnerable individuals.

A Legacy of Scandal and Allegations

Omotoso, the 66-year-old leader of Jesus Dominion International Church, gained notoriety for his lavish lifestyle and controversial ministry, which promised miraculous healings and prophecies. Arrested in 2017, he was charged with multiple offences, including sexual assault and trafficking young women, some of whom were members of his church’s gospel group, Grace Galaxy.

His church in Port Elizabeth was eventually shut down after mass protests, with enraged South Africans demanding justice for alleged victims. Unverified reports also suggested that one of the women who testified against him received death threats before the trial.

A Justice System Under Fire

Omotoso’s acquittal has reignited fierce debates about the effectiveness of South Africa’s judicial system in handling sexual abuse cases. Critics argue that the case highlights systemic failures, from witness intimidation to the slow pace of prosecutions, which often discourage survivors from seeking justice.

While Omotoso walks free, his future in South Africa remains uncertain. With public anger at a boiling point and mounting pressure on authorities, his deportation may be the only way to quell the growing unrest.

For many, however, the wounds left by this case may never fully heal.