A’Ibom: Social Media Influencer arraigned For Defamation

By Patrick Titus, Uyo

A social media influencer in Akwa Ibom State, Princess God’sown Monday Udoito has been arraigned in the High Court, Uyo Judicial Division on a six-count charge bordering on criminal defamation, threats, publication of false information and conduct capable of causing breach of public peace.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare and made available to our correspondent, it was stated that the charges arose from a petition dated 10th January, 2026 against the defendant.

The statement alleged that the defendant, using her Facebook account, “Princess God’sown Udoito,” with over 20,000 followers, published and circulated false, misleading, defamatory and threatening statements and videos.

It further stated that “Police investigations revealed that the defendant allegedly published content accusing His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, of unlawfully selling ancestral lands in Eket Local Government Area to private entities and misappropriating the proceeds thereof.

“Further investigations revealed that the publication also allegedly contained threats, including references to the use of “juju” and ancestral forces, as well as content capable of inciting fear, panic, public disorder and unrest, particularly within Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas.

“The defendant is facing charges of conspiracy to commit 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 contrary to the provisions of 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.”

Meanwhile, the Police has reiterated that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it does not extend to the dissemination of falsehoods, defamatory material, threats or any conduct capable of undermining public peace and security.

The statement warned members of the public, particularly users of social media platforms that the use of online platforms to spread false information, issue threats, incite violence or cause public disorder will attract the full weight of the law.

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

Members of the public are further advised to verify information before dissemination and to channel grievances through lawful and appropriate channels.

The defendant has been remanded in the Correctional Service custody after pleading not guilty to the charges.