Nnamdi Kanu’s Sister-in-Law Barred from Court for Unauthorized Livestreaming of Proceedings

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has barred Mrs. Favour Kanu, sister-in-law to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), from attending the next three court sessions. The decision follows her unauthorized livestreaming of court proceedings on her Facebook page, a violation of court protocol.

Mrs. Kanu, married to Prince Fineboy Kanu, Nnamdi Kanu's younger brother, admitted to the act and apologized in court. Despite her apology and that of Kanu's lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), Justice Omotosho emphasized the seriousness of the breach, noting that Mrs. Kanu had previously had her phone confiscated for similar conduct. He stated that she could have been charged with contempt of court but opted for a temporary ban instead.

The judge expressed surprise that Mrs. Kanu proceeded to post the video online after her phone was confiscated during the last adjourned date. He reiterated the importance of maintaining courtroom decorum and warned against actions that could delay the trial.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing charges of terrorism and treason brought by the Nigerian government. His trial, which has experienced multiple delays and judicial changes, is now under the purview of Justice Omotosho. The court has scheduled subsequent hearings for May 6 and beyond.

This incident underscores the court's commitment to upholding legal procedures and ensuring that trials proceed without undue interference or breaches of protocol.