Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani, has reinstated the dethroned paramount chief of Piriga Chiefdom in Lere local government area, Jonathan Paragua Zamuna, in compliance with court orders.
Sani’s predecessor, Nasir el-Rufa’i, had dethroned the monarch on 22 May 2023, just days before the end of his tenure.
Recall that the National Industrial Court in Kaduna nullified Chief Zamuna’s removal and deposition on 14 June 2024. Speaking to a gathering of traditional rulers on 5 July 2024, the governor affirmed his commitment to implementing the court’s judgment that set aside the dethronement.
During the reinstatement ceremony at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, yesterday, Governor Sani congratulated Chief Zamuna, and urged him to serve all members of his chiefdom equally, without ethno-religious bias.
The Governor stressed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, and justice, saying: “We are committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness in all our actions”.
Reflecting on the significance of the reinstatement, Sani noted, “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?”
Governor Sani urged the reinstated chief to use the opportunity to lead with dedication and compassion, whike reiterating 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.
In response, an elated Chief Zamuna expressed gratitude 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”.
