The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has taken a decisive step in its campaign against online misinformation and threats, arraigning a social media user before the High Court of Akwa Ibom State over a six-count charge bordering on criminal defamation and public order offences.
The defendant, God’sown Monday Udoito (female), popularly known on Facebook as Princess God’sown Udoito, was on Thursday brought before the Uyo Judicial Division following investigations into alleged posts and videos circulated on her Facebook account, said to command over 20,000 followers.
According to the Police, the charges stem from a petition dated January 10, 2026, which accused the defendant of publishing false, misleading, defamatory and threatening content capable of causing fear, panic and unrest in parts of the state.
Investigations revealed that the social media posts allegedly accused Umo Eno, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, of unlawfully selling ancestral lands in Eket Local Government Area and misappropriating proceeds from the purported transactions.
The Police further alleged that the publications went beyond defamation, containing threats and references to the use of “juju” and ancestral forces—content investigators say was capable of inciting public disorder, particularly in Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas.
SIX COUNTS, SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS
The defendant is facing 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, as well as 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 and the Internal Security and Enforcement Law of Akwa Ibom State.
After pleading not guilty to all counts, the court ordered that the defendant be remanded in correctional custody pending further proceedings.
POLICE ISSUE FIRM WARNING
In a statement signed by Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, the Command stressed that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it does not extend to the spread of falsehoods, defamatory materials, threats or any conduct capable of undermining public peace.
The Police warned that social media platforms must not be turned into tools for misinformation, intimidation or incitement, adding that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
The Nigeria Police Force assured the public that the case would be diligently prosecuted in line with due process, while also guaranteeing that the fundamental rights of the defendant would be fully respected.
Members of the public were advised to verify information before sharing and to channel grievances through lawful and appropriate channels, as authorities continue efforts to maintain peace, security and responsible digital engagement across Akwa Ibom State.
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