The dispute over the rightful Eze Aro IX of Arochukwu persists despite recent court rulings in favor of Mazi Godwin Kanu Idei.
The tussle over who is the authentic Eze Aro IX of Arochukwu may not be over anytime soon, considering that Mazi Godwin Kanu Idei is still laying claim to the position even though the Abia State Government has handed over the Staff of Office to Eberechukwu Oji, confirming him as the Eze Aro IX of the Arochukwu Kingdom.
Mazi Idei, who was facing multiple charges, including conspiracy and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace in the Magistrate Court of Abia State, was recently set free by the Abia State High Court. The High Court’s ruling on April 30, 2024, restrained further legal actions against him, leading to the Magistrate Court striking out the charges and discharging Mazi Idei on May 24, 2024.
In a press release made available to ALL FACTS NEWSPAPER, Mazi K. C Phil Kanu Okoro Oke Esq, the lawyer for Mazi Godwin Kanu Idei, claimed that the legal victory confirms that Mazi Godwin Kanu Idei did not impersonate anyone and is the rightful Eze Aro IX of the Arochukwu Kingdom.
“The High Court’s decision underscores the importance of respecting traditional leadership and customs amidst political influence,” he said.
He claimed that Governor Alex Otti and his associates, including Mazi Emmanuel Kanu Okoroafor and Personal Assistant Ugochukwu Okoroafor, allegedly sought to alter the traditional customs of Arochukwu by replacing the newly crowned Eze Aro IX. He further claimed that following the coronation of Mazi Kanu Idei, the Governor reportedly instructed Eze Ibom Isii of Arochukwu, Eze Dr. Kanu Nwa Kanu, to uncrown Mazi Idei within 24 hours. When Eze Ibom Isii refused, he was suspended and subsequently took the state government to court.
He went on to state that Governor Otti allegedly invited Mazi Idei several times, attempting to persuade him to step down in favor of a preferred candidate. Despite various offers and threats, Mazi Idei remained steadfast.
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