Popular Nigerian content creator and activist, Mr Macaroni (real name Adebowale Adedayo), has publicly condemned the alleged prolonged detention of 15 domestic workers reportedly locked up since 2019 on the orders of former First Lady Patience Jonathan over missing jewellery.
The skit maker and outspoken human rights advocate expressed his outrage via social media on Friday, April 4, calling the situation a “painful injustice” and raising questions about the abuse of power by the wealthy and politically connected in Nigeria.
“The injustice in this country is so painful!!!
According to this report, these men and women have been locked up for over five years without a court conviction!!
Does Madam Patience Jonathan even remember that they are still in prison???” he wrote.
Locked Away for Five Years Without Trial?
According to reports circulating online, the workers—allegedly accused of stealing jewellery from the former first lady—have remained in detention since 2019, with no court conviction or trial to back their incarceration.
Mr Macaroni called for immediate action from Nigerians, insisting that citizens must no longer stay silent while the rich and powerful continue to imprison the voiceless without due process.
“We must stand against this pattern of abusing power that allows rich or influential people to lock up others because they cannot speak or fight for themselves. By law, they are innocent until proven guilty!” he stated.
Mounting Public Outcry
His comments have sparked renewed outrage on social media, with many demanding answers from the authorities and from Patience Jonathan herself. Legal experts and human rights groups are now also weighing in, calling for a thorough investigation into the detention and a swift judicial review.
This isn’t the first time Mr Macaroni has used his platform to speak against human rights abuses. He has been a consistent voice during #EndSARS protests and has often criticized government impunity and injustice.
As pressure mounts, Nigerians await a response from the Jonathan camp and relevant legal authorities. For many, this case has become yet another symbol of the deep-rooted inequality in Nigeria’s justice system.
