In a dramatic move to preserve the sanctity of judicial proceedings, Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a stern order restraining all parties involved in the legal tussle between suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio from granting media interviews or streaming court proceedings on social media.
The order came down during Friday’s court session after Akpabio’s lead counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), raised concerns that Senator Natasha had been actively engaging the press while the matter was still sub judice.
He alleged that the suspended lawmaker had made appearances on international platforms, including BBC and CNN, to discuss the case.
Responding swiftly, Justice Nyako emphasized the need to maintain the integrity of the court process. “There shall be no press interviews by all parties and their lawyers as regards the subject matter of the case,” she ruled, adding that live streaming or any form of social media commentary on the proceedings is strictly prohibited.
During the session, Jibril Okutepa (SAN), counsel for Natasha, informed the court that this was the case’s first appearance following a transfer from Justice Obiora Egwuatu's court.
He appealed for a consolidated hearing of all applications, citing urgency due to the limited tenure of his client’s suspension and her desire for a speedy resolution.
Lawyers for the Clerk of the National Assembly and the Senate did not oppose Okutepa’s request. However, Ogunwumiju and Umeh Kalu (SAN), representing Senator Neda Imasuem—Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct—objected.
Justice Nyako ruled in favor of Natasha’s request, stating that all pending applications, including preliminary objections, will be heard alongside the substantive suit. The matter was adjourned until May 12 for a full hearing.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is challenging the Senate’s decision to suspend her for six months over allegations of misconduct, arguing that she was denied a fair hearing in the process.
Stay tuned as this high-profile legal battle continues to unfold.