ABUJA — The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday barred Favour Kanu, sister-in-law of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, from attending the next three court sessions after she admitted to live-streaming proceedings on Facebook.
Justice James Omotosho issued the order following her apology, stating she would have faced contempt charges had she not acknowledged the violation. The court had previously confiscated her phone after catching her recording proceedings during an earlier hearing.
“Were you not the one whose phone I took? I did not order its forfeiture, but this repeat offense is unacceptable,” Justice Omotosho remarked, questioning whether her familial ties influenced her actions.
Though Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), apologized on her behalf, the judge maintained the three-session ban as a disciplinary measure. He warned against actions that could delay the trial while assuring all parties of a fair judicial process.
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), faces terrorism charges brought by the Federal Government. The court has repeatedly emphasized strict adherence to decorum during the high-profile case.