The Ekid People’s Union (EPU) has commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, following the release on bail of Princess Godsown Udoito, who spent 270 days in custody at the Uyo Correctional Centre.
Udoito regained her freedom on Wednesday after an Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo granted her bail, bringing an end to her prolonged detention over allegations arising from publications made against Governor Eno.
Reacting to the development in a statement titled, “Our Princess Is Free!”, the apex socio-cultural organisation of the Ekid people described the outcome as a demonstration of compassion by the Governor and a move that had transformed a prolonged dispute into reconciliation.
The statement, signed by the EPU President-General, Dr Samuel Udonsak, and Secretary-General, Hon. (Barr.) Bassey Dan-Abia, said the union was grateful to Eno for what it described as his magnanimity and sincerity.
“His Excellency has shown compassion and sincerity, such that what looked, at the beginning, like a stormy war, ended amicably like a family affair,” the union said.
Udoito, an indigene of Esit Eket, was arrested on January 14, 2026, following allegations that she used her Facebook platform, which has more than 20,000 followers, to publish what authorities described as false, misleading, defamatory and threatening statements and videos against the Governor.
She was subsequently charged on six counts, including criminal defamation, publication of false news and conduct allegedly capable of causing a breach of public peace, with the case occurring against the backdrop of her advocacy over the disputed Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.
After pleading not guilty, she was remanded in correctional custody, while an earlier application for bail was denied, resulting in months of detention.
Her continued detention subsequently generated appeals from Ekid women and youths, including demonstrations in Eket in June during which protesters carried placards calling on Governor Eno to intervene in the matter.
The EPU also credited the Oku Ibom Ibibio, His Eminence Ntenyin Dr Solomon D. Etuk, CFR, with contributing to the resolution, citing his “timely intervention, persistent interest, and commitment to a peaceful resolution.”
The union further appreciated the Paramount Rulers of Eket and Esit Eket, the Clan Head of Ekid Offiong, Archbishop Senator Helen Esuene, socio-cultural organisations, women and youth leaders, religious leaders, the media and members of Udoito’s legal team led by Akpadiaha Ebitu, Esq.
According to the union, Udoito is now receiving routine medical assistance and counselling following her release.
The organisation declared the immediate matter closed and called on Akwa Ibom residents to redirect their attention to unity and collective development.
It urged the people to remain committed to “the task of building a united and prosperous Akwa Ibom State.”
