Court Slaps Media Ban on Natasha, Akpabio, and Others
Court Bans Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio, Others from Media Commentary
Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a media gag order in the ongoing legal dispute between suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, along with three other defendants.
The ruling, delivered on Friday, came in response to a complaint by Akpabio’s legal counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN). He informed the court that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had been actively engaging with the media, granting multiple television interviews related to the case—a matter that is still pending before the court.
In her brief but firm decision, Justice Nyako directed that all parties involved, including their legal representatives, are henceforth prohibited from making public statements or granting interviews to the press concerning the ongoing proceedings.
The court also took a step further by banning the streaming or broadcasting of court proceedings on social media platforms, warning that such actions could compromise the integrity of the judicial process.
⚖️ Why This Matters
The decision underscores the court’s intent to preserve the sanctity of the judicial process and avoid trial by media. It also raises important questions about the balance between free speech and legal discretion, especially in high-profile political cases.
While details of the case continue to unfold, the court’s directive is clear: no further public commentary—at least, not while the matter remains in court.
More updates to follow as the case develops…
