Sani to reinstate Kaduna monarch dethroned by El-Rufai

The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, on Thursday, promised to reinstate the Paramount Chief of Piriga in the Lere Local Government Area of the state, Chief Jonathan Zamuna, who was dethroned by his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai.

Sani, while addressing some traditional rulers on Thursday, said he would implement the judgment of the Industrial Court of Nigeria, which set aside Zamuna’s removal.

El-Rufai dethroned the monarch on May 22, 2023, a few days to the end of his tenure.

Zamuna challenged his removal in court and Justice Bashar Alkali entered judgment in his favour, ordering the government to reinstate him and pay all the salaries, allowances, entitlements and benefits due to him within 30 days of the judgment.

Speaking on Thursday, Sani described traditional rulers as a “stabilising force,” adding that he would comply with the judgment out of respect for the rule of law.

He said, “I want to remind you, with every sense of humility, that I am a democrat and a respecter of the rule of law. I also know too well how traditional values have shaped our state for the better.

“Let me recall that even during my days as an activist, I had a respectable and healthy relationship with the traditional institution. On the strength of these, I want to say that all our traditional rulers, from all parts of the state, are our royal fathers and we hold you all in high esteem.

“As proof of my commitment to the rule of law, I want to make known to you our intention to comply fully with the judgment of the court, issued on 10th June 2024, restoring the Chief of Piriga, in the Lere LGA, His Royal Highness, Jonathan Zamuna, to his stool.

“Leadership remains the cornerstone for effectively addressing all of the challenges confronting Nigeria today. That necessarily includes your leadership, because you are closest to the people.”

Sani said his doors were open to the traditional rulers to approach him at any time.

“In our one year in office, we have carried critical stakeholders along in our strategic objectives, and this includes key engagements with our traditional institution. Therefore, our doors remain wide open for our continued interaction on issues of development and security of our state.”

He condoled with  the Kaduna State Council of Chiefs over the death of the Chief of Moroa, Mallam Tagwai Sambo,

“He was a highly respected father and a leader of immense value. May Almighty God grant him eternal rest,” he said.