April 08, (THEWILL) – The Bayelsa State Judiciary has dismissed as false recent media reports alleging undue delay in the trial of 15 domestic staff of former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, who are facing charges of burglary and theft of valuables, including jewellery.
The Judiciary’s position was made known in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Head of Media and Information of the Bayelsa State High Court, Julius Nyananyo, in response to claims that the prolonged incarceration of the accused persons was being influenced by the former First Lady.
Nyananyo clarified that the ongoing case is being handled by High Court 1 in Yenagoa, presided over by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Matilda Ayemieye. According to him, the matter has been accorded accelerated hearing since it was assigned to the judge in 2019, prior to her elevation as Chief Judge.
He stressed that delays in the trial have largely been occasioned by the multiplicity of defence counsels, whose repeated cross-examinations of witnesses have significantly slowed the pace of proceedings.
“From available records, the matter has suffered delays due to the multiple defence lawyers who must cross-examine witnesses. The case has also suffered several adjournments at the instance of the defence counsels,” the statement noted.
Justice Ayemieye, according to Nyananyo, had advised the defence to streamline their legal representation to ensure swift justice for the accused persons, adding that the court has consistently sat on all dates scheduled for hearing.
The court’s spokesperson also revealed that a recent application for a trial within trial by the defence would likely prolong proceedings further, a situation he maintained is not attributable to the court.
On the issue of bail, Nyananyo noted that applications were considered on merit and granted where appropriate, stressing that dissatisfied parties have the right to seek a review through appellate courts.
Reacting to allegations made by an unnamed online platform, Nyananyo condemned what he described as a reckless disregard for journalistic ethics, particularly the use of derogatory language aimed at tarnishing the image of the Chief Judge.
“It is worrisome that the platform abandoned the ethics of journalism and resorted to unsubstantiated hearsay and indecorous language against the person and office of the Chief Judge. We firmly deny any suggestion that any individual or authority is dictating the pace of the case,” the statement added.
The court urged media organisations to uphold professional standards and engage in investigative journalism rather than sensationalism, especially in matters that border on justice and public trust.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
