By Solomon OKPO
Residents and stakeholders from Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas have intensified calls for the release of Princess Godsown Udoito, expressing concern over her continued detention and urging local government authorities to take more visible steps toward securing her freedom.
In an open letter addressed to the Executive Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Hon. Akaniyene Tommey, and his Esit Eket counterpart, Hon. Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, the concerned citizens appealed for urgent intervention, describing the situation as one that has generated anxiety and emotional distress across both communities.
The letter, signed by “The Sons and Daughters of Esit Eket and Eket,” questioned the efforts so far made by the two council chairmen toward securing the release of Udoito, whom they described as a prominent voice for the people.
According to the group, Princess Udoito had consistently championed issues affecting residents of the area, particularly concerns relating to damaged farmlands and unfulfilled commitments made to local communities.
The authors of the letter acknowledged reports suggesting that both chairmen may have been making private efforts to facilitate her release but maintained that the people had yet to see any tangible results.
“Princess Godsown did not fight for herself alone. She stood and spoke for Esit Eket and Eket. Today that voice is locked behind bars,” the letter stated.
The concerned citizens noted that the two chairmen, by virtue of their positions, have access to key government officials and should leverage such influence to advance the cause of her release.
They further called on the council leaders to publicly disclose measures already taken, including any discussions held with the state government on the matter.
Among the questions raised were what specific actions had been undertaken to secure Udoito’s freedom, whether the matter had been brought before the Governor, and what response had been received from the government.
The group expressed disappointment over what it described as official silence, arguing that the absence of visible action was fueling feelings of neglect and betrayal among residents.
While reaffirming their support for constituted authority, the signatories urged the chairmen to take a more proactive and public stance, including engaging relevant government institutions and prison authorities where necessary.
They stressed that their appeal was not politically motivated but driven by concern for one of their own and a desire to see justice and mercy prevail.
The letter concluded with a passionate call for the release of Princess Godsown Udoito, insisting that the people of Eket and Esit Eket would continue to seek her freedom until she reunites with her family and community.
The appeal has since generated discussions among residents, with many awaiting official responses from the two local government chairmen regarding the concerns raised in the letter.
