A lawyer has warned that defying a court order regarding the controversial Eze Aro traditional stool could result in jail time for Pastor Eberechukwu Oji. The Arochukwu Chieftaincy dispute has intensified, with the court nullifying Oji’s coronation and restricting him from parading himself as Eze Aro. Despite the ruling, Oji’s continued actions, including plans to host the Ikeji Aro festival, could lead to contempt charges and imprisonment.
Since assuming the contested position, Pastor Eberechukwu Oji has defied the court’s order, which was issued by Justice C. Nwankmma in Umunneochi on July 31, 2024. The court declared the coronation null and void, stating that the matter was still pending and ordered all parties to maintain the status quo. The ruling affirmed Mazi Godwin Kanu Idei as the recognized Eze Aro until a final decision is made.
Barrister Iheanyi Ndukwe, speaking on a live radio program in Umuahia, emphasized that the court’s order must be obeyed, stating that anyone found violating the directive could face up to six months in jail. He reiterated that Pastor Oji’s continued self-presentation as Eze Aro and plans to host the Ikeji Aro festival—a significant cultural event in Arochukwu—constitute a blatant disregard for the law.
Mazi Adolphus Ulu Nwankwo, another community leader, criticized Pastor Oji’s actions, highlighting his disregard for the judiciary and the sanctity of Arochukwu traditions. He urged the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to enforce the court order and prevent any further violation.
As tensions mount, the legal tussle over the Eze Aro stool shows no signs of abating, with stakeholders vowing to seek additional redress in court to uphold the rule of law.
