In a significant development in the ongoing traditional leadership dispute in Arochukwu Ancient Kingdom, the Abia State High Court has issued a ruling restraining Nwa Mazi Pastor Eberechukwu Eni Kanu Orji from parading himself as the Eze Aro.
The court’s decision, handed down on July 31, 2024, follows a contentious legal battle over the rightful holder of the prestigious traditional title.
The case, filed by Mazi Adolphus Ulu Nwankwo, Mazi Kingsley Phil Kanu Okoro Oke Esq, and Mazi Dike Ezenta against multiple respondents, including Mazi Udo Chijioke, Nwa Mazi Pastor Eberechukwu Eni Kanu Orji (recently installed as Eze Aro IX), Rev. Uma Ukpai & All Pastors, Sammy Wonder, Attorney General of Abia State, Governor of Abia State, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu (KSC), Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, HRH Eze Kanu Nwa Kanu and HRM Mazi Godwin Idei Kanu Okoro Oke saw Justice Chido Nwakanma delivering a judgment.
Key directives from the court include the immediate withdrawal of the staff of office from the 2nd respondent, Nwa Mazi Pastor Eberechukwu Eni Kanu Orji, and an order restraining him from further claiming the title of Eze Aro IX.
The court mandated the restoration of all parties to their former conditions and statuses before the initiation of the suit, emphasizing the need for peace and order while the substantive case was pending. The judgment also protects key witnesses, including traditional rulers like Eze Ogo Adaga and Eze Ibom Isii, from harassment or intimidation.
Details of Court Rulings:
Withdrawal of Staff of Office:
The court mandated the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th respondents to withdraw the staff of office conferred on the 2nd respondent, Nwa Mazi Pastor Eberechukwu Eni Kanu Orji.
Implication: This action nullifies the formal recognition of Eze Eberechukwu Kanu Orji as the traditional ruler, pending the court’s final decision. It emphasizes that the legality of his installation is under scrutiny.
Restraint on Parading as Eze Aro IX:
The 2nd respondent is prohibited from assuming the title and role of Eze Aro IX until the case is resolved.
Implication: This ensures that no further confusion or disputes arise regarding the traditional leadership, maintaining the status quo until a conclusive ruling is issued.
Restoration to Previous Status:
All parties involved are to revert to their positions prior to the lawsuit’s initiation.
Implication: This prevents any actions or changes that could influence the court’s decision, effectively freezing the current situation.
Protection of Claimants and Witnesses:
The court restrained respondents and their associates from harassing or intimidating Eze Ogo Adaga, Eze Eze Agwu, Eze Ibom Isii, and other Eze Ogos in Arochukwu’s 19 villages, who are crucial witnesses for the claimants.
Implication: This measure safeguards the integrity of the judicial process by protecting those who might provide crucial testimony.
The court’s rulings come as a significant intervention in the ongoing tussle for the Eze Aro throne, highlighting the legal complexities and the need for a judicial resolution. The case underscores the delicate nature of traditional rulership disputes and the importance of adhering to due process.
