Social media user arraigned in Akwa Ibom over alleged defamation and threats

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arraigned God’sown Monday Udoito, also known as Princess God’sown Udoito, before the High Court of Akwa Ibom State, Uyo Judicial Division, on a six-count charge of criminal defamation and public order offences.

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The charges stem from a petition dated 10 January 2026, which alleged that Udoito, using her Facebook account with over 20,000 followers, published and circulated false, misleading, and defamatory statements and videos.

Investigations by the police revealed that the posts accused His Excellency, Umo Eno, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, of unlawfully selling ancestral lands in Eket Local Government Area and misappropriating the proceeds.

The publications allegedly contained threats referencing the use of “juju” and ancestral forces and were capable of inciting fear, panic, and public disorder within Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas.

Udoito faces charges including conspiracy to commit criminal defamation, criminal defamation, publication of defamatory matter with intent to intimidate, conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, threats capable of causing fear and public disturbance, and publication of false news with intent to cause alarm.

The offences contravene the Criminal Code Law, Cap. 39, Vol. 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022, and the Internal Security and Enforcement Law, Cap. 73, Vol. 4, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022.

The Nigeria Police Force emphasised that constitutional freedom of expression does not extend to the dissemination of false information, threats, or material capable of undermining public peace and security.

The Command warned that spreading misinformation, issuing threats, or inciting violence online will attract the full weight of the law.

The defendant pleaded not guilty and has been remanded in correctional custody.

The Police Command assured that the case will be diligently prosecuted in line with due process and that the fundamental rights of the defendant will be fully respected.