—– Say no individual or group possesses the legal authority to restrict or bar the lawful movement of any Nigerian citizen within any part of the country.

The Udumeze Ohafia Ancient Kingdom and the Council of Ohafia Monarchs have overturned a declaration by the Ohafia Youths Association Inc. (OYA) barring Senator Orji Uzor Kalu from visiting communities in Ohafia, Abia State.

The youth group had earlier issued a statement, signed by its Chairman, Obasi Kalu Obasi, and Secretary, Onyekachi Uduma, declaring the Abia North senator persona non grata and warning him against entering Ohafia communities.

The association accused Senator Kalu of making remarks they claimed were injurious to the image and collective interests of the Ohafia people.

However, amid growing tension, the traditional rulers intervened to restore calm, formally nullifying the youths declaration and describing it as unconstitutional and invalid.

In a statement issued by the Udumeze Ohafia-in-Council, the monarchs noted that the action of the youth group contravened Sections 39 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which guarantee fundamental rights, including freedom of movement and association.

The monarchs further urged all stakeholders in Ohafia to embrace dialogue and lawful means in addressing grievances, warning that actions capable of undermining peace and unity in the ancient kingdom would not be tolerated.

Their intervention is seen as a decisive step to de-escalate tensions and reaffirm the supremacy of the constitution and traditional authority in the area.