The Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo has revoked the bail earlier granted to one of the defendants standing trial over the alleged r@pe of a 13-year-old boy.
The ruling was delivered on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in Suit No. HU/41/2025 by Justice Okon Okon, following the withdrawal of defence counsel, Barr. Ifayi Ejika, who cited inconsistencies in his client’s appearance in court as the reason for stepping down from the case.
The affected defendant, Mr. David Udoh James, is one of seven men facing prosecution in connection with the alleged s3xual assault of a Junior Secondary School student (name withheld) from Etoi community in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The other defendants standing trial are: Okwudili Levi Okeke (popularly known as Eze Anambra), Idara Itam Daniel, Daniel Jacob Edet, Udofia Edem Udosen, David Bassey Bassey and Nsikak Emmanuel Ben.
In addition to revoking the bail, the court ordered the surety to produce the defendant in court on March 10, 2026, when the matter is scheduled to come up again.
The court further directed that the surety must appear alongside the defendant on that date, warning that failure to produce the accused person would attract legal consequences.
The proceedings were closely monitored by journalists, as the case continues to draw widespread public attention across Akwa Ibom State.
The case gained prominence after allegations emerged that the minor was subjected to repeated s3xual abuse over several years, beginning from his primary school days.
According to earlier accounts, the victim alleged that he was initially lured by a night security guard attached to QIC School, Etoi, and later introduced to other adult men who allegedly participated in the abuse.
The suspects reportedly threatened him to prevent disclosure.
The alleged abuse reportedly came to light after the boy’s health condition deteriorated, prompting his parents to demand explanations.
Medical examinations were subsequently conducted as part of the investigation process.
The victim’s mother had earlier appealed for assistance, citing financial challenges that initially hindered the family from pursuing the case.
Community stakeholders have also called on the state government to ensure justice for the minor and strengthen child protection mechanisms.
Following police intervention, the suspects were arrested and charged to court.
With the revocation of bail and the directive to the surety, the matter is expected to resume on March 10, 2026, as the court moves to ensure strict compliance with its orders and the continued prosecution of the case.