Kaduna gov abides by court order, reinstates El-Rufai's dethroned monarch

Jonathan Paragua Zamuna, the dethroned paramount chief of Piriga Chiefdom in Lere Local Government Area, has been reinstated by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.

The reinstatement is in compliance with court orders issued by National Industrial Court in Kaduna, which nullified Chief Zamuna’s removal and deposition on 14 June 2024.

On Thursday, 5 July 2024, Governor Sani had affirmed his commitment to implementing the court’s judgment, which set aside the dethronement.

Indeed, former governor Nasir El-Rufai had dethroned the monarch on 22 May 2023, just days before the end of his tenure.

However, Governor Sani, who congratulated Chief Zamuna during his reinstatement at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, on Wednesday, urged him to serve all members of his chiefdom equally, without ethno-religious bias.

The governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, and justice.

“We are committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness in all our actions,” he said.

Sani, who emphasised the significance of the reinstatement, said: “This is a solemn moment for us as a government and as a people. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on our past actions and their impact on our state. Have our actions fostered peace and understanding, or have they deepened divisions in our state?”

He urged the reinstated chief to use the opportunity to lead with dedication and compassion.

Governor Sani reiterated his administration’s commitment to the state’s development, pledging investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to ensure equal opportunities for all residents of Kaduna State.

Responding, Chief Zamuna stated that he is grateful to Governor Sani for reinstating him, describing the governor as a blessing to Kaduna State.

“Your leadership has brought peace and stability to our state. You have demonstrated your commitment to justice and fairness, and we are grateful for that,” the chief said.

He also commended the administration’s developmental strides, adding, “Your investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure has brought significant improvements to the lives of our people.”