“I PREFER TO REMAIN IN PRISON,” HOUSEMAID TELLS JUDGE, AS SHE REJECTS HER FREEDOM 

A 26-year-old house maid, Mary Atte, arrested and charged before Isolo Magistrate’s court and remanded in prison for stealing her boss’ N2m,  has refused to leave prison, Pmexpress reports.

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She reportedly said she preferred to stay there in good faith, insisting that the prison condition was far better for her than when she was outside and would continue to remain there for her comfort.

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Atte made the confession when her matter was struck out for lack of diligent prosecution, by the presiding Magistrate, Mrs A.K. Shonubi and was released to go home.

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When the Magistrate set her free, she became angry and protested openly in court that she was going back to prison and she eventually returned to the prison, with the wardens that brought her to court. This is due in part to the fact that her properties are still in the prison.

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Atte told newsmen that she was brought to Lagos from her village in Benue State, by her sister, Esther. She said Esther sent her to one man as house help, where she served for some months and the man did not pay her the agreed salary.

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She said she left for one Aneke Andrew’s house at John Ije close, Okota, as maid, but Andrew also came with stories and did not pay her. She said when the time reached for the man to pay her, he alleged that she stole his N2m, which she denied.

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Atte said she has been remanded in prison since December 20, 2016. According to her, she was initially afraid, but later realized it was a blessing in disguise. 

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She said the women there are treated fairly and compassionately which she had lacked over the years and would like to stay there despite being freed by the court.