Alleged defamation: Appeal Court affirms ruling on Princess Udoito’s bail rejection
The Court of Appeal in Calabar has upheld a ruling by the Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo that denied bail to Princess God’sown Udoito, a Facebook user facing trial for alleged defamatory statements regarding Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.
In its decision, the High Court, presided over by Justice Winifred Umohandi, cited the serious nature of the charges, the possibility of flight, and concerns for public order as reasons for denying bail. The court also mandated an expedited hearing to accelerate the trial process.
Udoito’s defense team subsequently appealed the High Court’s decision. However, in a judgment delivered on Wednesday, the three-member appellate panel unanimously dismissed the appeal, thereby confirming the lower court’s decision to refuse bail.
Justice Mohammed Ambi-Usi Danjuma delivered the ruling on behalf of the panel. The State was represented by Chief State Counsel Utomobong Inyang, while the appellant was represented by Akpadiaha Ebitu.
