Kaduna Governor Bows To Court Order, Reinstates Dethroned Piriga Chief

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has reinstated the Paramount Chief of Piriga Chiefdom, Jonathan Zamuna, in Lere Local Government Area, following a court judgment nullifying his dethronement.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Zamuna was removed from office on May 22, 2023, by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, just days before the end of his tenure. Dissatisfied with the decision, the traditional ruler challenged his removal in court.

On June 14, 2024, Justice Bashar Alkali of the National Industrial Court in Kaduna ruled that Zamuna’s removal was “irregular, unfair, null, and unconstitutional.” The court ordered his reinstatement along with the payment of all his salaries, allowances, and benefits within 30 days.

In July 2024, Governor Sani, addressing traditional rulers, pledged to honor the court’s decision. “I am a democrat and a respecter of the rule of law,” he stated.

On Wednesday, the governor fulfilled his promise by officially reinstating Chief Zamuna during a ceremony held at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna.

“We are committed to justice and fairness in all our actions,” Governor Sani said during the event, urging Chief Zamuna to lead his people with fairness and impartiality, free of ethno-religious bias. “This is a solemn moment to reflect on past actions and their impact on our state,” he added.

Governor Sani emphasized his administration’s dedication to the rule of law and due process, saying, “Our commitment to the rule of law is unwavering, which is why we promptly complied with the court’s judgment.”

An elated Chief Zamuna expressed his gratitude, describing the governor as a blessing to Kaduna State. “Your leadership has brought peace and stability. You have shown an unwavering commitment to justice and fairness, and we are deeply grateful,” Zamuna remarked.

The reinstatement underscores the importance of upholding justice and the rule of law in governance, reflecting a new chapter for both the chiefdom and the state.