A dramatic turn of events unfolded in the Federal High Court in Abuja, Nigeria, on Tuesday, as Favour Kanu, the wife of Prince Fineboy Kanu, was banished from the courtroom. The reason behind this decision was her actions on social media, specifically streaming the court proceedings live on her Facebook page. This move was deemed a serious offense, especially considering her husband’s relationship to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is currently facing prosecution by the Federal Government for alleged terrorism charges.
At the heart of the matter is the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, a figure whose case has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. The IPOB, which he leads, has been proscribed by the government, leading to a complex legal and political landscape. The courtroom drama involving Favour Kanu adds another layer to this already intricate situation. Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, took a firm stance when he learned of Favour Kanu’s actions. After she admitted to streaming the proceedings and apologized, Justice Omotosho emphasized that her actions could have led to a contempt of court charge.
The situation became even more astonishing when it was revealed that Favour Kanu’s phone had been confiscated during a previous hearing for the same offense – recording the court proceedings. Despite this, she found a way to post the video online, prompting the judge to express his surprise and disappointment. “I want to hear from her. Were you not the one that I took your phone? I did not give order to forfeit that phone,” Justice Omotosho remarked, clearly dismayed by her actions. The judge’s words underscore the seriousness with which the court views violations of its rules and the potential disruption such actions could cause to the legal process.
Kanu’s lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi, stepped in to apologize on Favour Kanu’s behalf, but Justice Omotosho remained firm in his decision. He ruled that Favour Kanu would be barred from attending the next three court proceedings, a decision aimed at maintaining the integrity of the trial and upholding the rules of the court. The judge’s primary concern is ensuring that the trial proceeds without unnecessary interruptions or influences from external factors, including social media.
In the midst of this legal drama, Justice Omotosho reassured all parties involved that justice would be served. His commitment to fairness and adherence to the law is paramount, especially in a case as sensitive and high-profile as Nnamdi Kanu’s. The proceedings will undoubtedly continue to be closely watched, both in Nigeria and internationally, as the legal community and the public await the outcome of this significant trial. Through it all, the judge’s stance on maintaining the dignity and order of the court remains unwavering, a crucial aspect of ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
