I Want To Remain In Kirikiri Prison - Lady Begs Lagos Court

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

In a shocking declaration that amused litigants present in the court, Atte explained that the prison condition was far better for her than when she was outside and would continue to remain there for her comfort.

When the Magistrate set her free, she became angry and protested openly in court that she was going back to prison and she actually went back as she said.

Atte's sister identified as Esther reportedly brought her to Lagos from Benue and sent her to a man's house to serve as a house help. Atte reportedly served for some months and the man she worked for did not pay her the agreed salary. The disappointed lady left the place and went to one Aneke Andrew’s house at John Ije close in Okota to serve as a maid but Andrew allegedly came up with a story and refused to pay her too.

She said when it was time for Andrew to pay her, he alleged that she stole his dollars worth over N2m which she denied.

Atte said she was arrested and taken to the police station before she was charged to court for the alleged offence and remanded in prison since December 20, 2016.

According to her, she was initially afraid when she arrived at Kirikiri prison, not until she settled down realized it was a blessing in disguise. She said the fair and compassionate treatment women received in the prison was something she lacked over the years and would like to stay there despite being freed by the court.

To the surprise of many, Atte said if they refuse to take her back into custody, she will plead with the matron to employ her there so that she will remain in that environment where people care for others.