Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a ruling that bars all parties in the case filed by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and three others from speaking to the press about the suspension case. The ruling followed a complaint from Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Akpabio’s lawyer, who claimed that Natasha had been granting interviews to the press regarding her six-month suspension, which is still under legal review.
Restricting Media and Social Media Engagement
Following the complaint, Justice Nyako made it clear that no party or their legal representatives could grant press interviews or speak about the suspension case on social media. The judge emphasized the case’s sub judice status, meaning that it is under judicial consideration and should not be discussed publicly. Ogunwumiju also highlighted Natasha’s appearances on BBC and CNN, arguing that this undermined the ongoing legal process.
With this ruling, Justice Nyako has ensured that all media engagement related to the case is strictly prohibited until further hearings are held. The court’s ruling underlines the importance of keeping discussions regarding the case within the legal framework.
Ensuring Fair Hearing and Expedited Trial
As the case progresses, Natasha’s lawyer, Jibril Okutepa (SAN), pushed for an expedited trial. He argued that the case should be handled quickly due to the temporary nature of Natasha’s suspension. However, while Charles Iyoila and Paul Daudu, representing the Senate and National Assembly, had no objections to the motion, others, including Ogunwumiju and Umeh Kalu (SAN), opposed Okutepa’s request.
Despite the opposition, Justice Nyako ruled in favor of Natasha, agreeing to hear all applications and the substantive suit together. She adjourned the case for May 12, ensuring that it would be addressed in the coming weeks.
Preserving Legal Process and Fairness
The ruling to bar Natasha and other involved parties from speaking about the suspension case is a significant step in ensuring that the trial proceeds without external influence. By preventing the public discussion of the case, the Federal High Court has preserved the sanctity of the legal process and upheld principles of fairness for all involved parties.
