Gladness Gideon
The Federal High Court in Abuja has barred Favour Kanu, wife of Prince Fineboy Kanu and sister-in-law to Nnamdi Kanu, from attending the next three court sessions after she was caught live-streaming court proceedings on her Facebook page.
Justice James Omotosho issued the order on Tuesday after Mrs. Kanu admitted to broadcasting the ongoing terrorism trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in violation of court protocols.
The judge, visibly displeased, reminded the court that Mrs. Kanu had already been cautioned for a similar offense. Her phone had been confiscated during the last adjourned session for recording within the courtroom — yet she went ahead to post the video online.
“I want to hear from her. Were you not the one that I took your phone?” Justice Omotosho asked. “I did not give an order to forfeit that phone. I don’t know if she might be a wife to my brother (Nnamdi Kanu).”
READ ALSO: No Weapon Found on Nnamdi Kanu During Arrest, DSS Witness Tells Court
Though Mrs. Kanu and her counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, both tendered apologies, the court ruled that she would be barred from attending the next three proceedings as a deterrent.
The judge emphasized the need for decorum and warned against actions that could delay the high-profile trial. He reiterated the court’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served without interference or disruption.
Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing charges brought by the Federal Government relating to terrorism and secessionist activities linked to his leadership of IPOB. The trial continues amidst tight security and high public interest.