University Don Convicted of Electoral Fraud Granted Bail

By Tony Esin 

A university lecturer, Prof. Ignatius Uduk, who was convicted of electoral fraud, has been granted bail by the High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom  State, pending the outcome of his appeal. 

The decision was made by Justice Okon Okon, who cited Uduk's critical health condition as a key factor in granting the bail.

The bail conditions include a sum of N2 million with two sureties, who must be residents within the court's jurisdiction. Uduk must also deposit his international passport with the court and is prohibited from traveling outside the country during the bail period.

Uduk's legal team, led by Chief Kalu Umeh (SAN), expressed satisfaction with the court's decision and assured that they will expedite the bail conditions to ensure Uduk's release for medical treatment. The team is also working to appeal the conviction at the Court of Appeal.

Uduk was initially sentenced to three years in prison for electoral fraud related to his role as Collation/Returning Officer for the Essien Udim State Constituency seat during the 2019 general elections.