Police arraign Facebook influencer over alleged defamation of Akwa Ibom governor

BY DENNIS UDOMA, UYO

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arraigned a social media user, Godsown Monday Udoito, popularly known as Princess Godsown Udoito, before the Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo over a six-count charge bordering on alleged defamation and public order offences.

Udoito, a Facebook influencer with over 20,000 followers, was docked following a petition dated January 10, 2026, which accused her of using her social media platform to publish and circulate false, misleading, defamatory and threatening statements.

According to the police, investigations revealed that, the defendant allegedly posted videos and statements accusing Governor Eno, of unlawfully selling ancestral lands allegedly belonging to Eket Local Government Area to private interests and diverting the proceeds for personal use.

The police further alleged that the publications went beyond defamation, as they reportedly contained threats and references to the use of “juju” and ancestral forces.

The content was said to be capable of inciting fear, panic and public unrest, particularly in Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas.

The defendant is facing charges of 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 fear and alarm.

The offences are said to be contrary to provisions of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. 39, Vol. 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022, as well as the Internal Security and Enforcement Law, Cap. 73, Vol. 4, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022.

At her arraignment, Udoito pleaded not guilty to all the charges. The court subsequently ordered her remand in correctional custody pending further proceedings.

The Nigeria Police Force, while reaffirming its respect for constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression, warned that, such freedom does not extend to the spread of falsehoods, defamatory materials, threats or actions capable of undermining public peace and security.

The Command assured the public that the matter would be diligently prosecuted in line with due process and the rule of law, adding that the fundamental rights of the defendant would be fully respected.

Members of the public were also advised to verify information before sharing it on social media and, to seek redress through lawful and appropriate channels rather than resorting to actions that could threaten public order.