National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Lami Victor, KADUNA |
The court has overturned the banishment of Chief Jonathan Pharaguwa Zamuna, the paramount ruler of Piriga Chiefdom in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a judgment delivered on Monday, the court declared the removal of the monarch by the government of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai as unconstitutional and void.
Justice Bashir Attahiru Alkali ordered the Kaduna State government to pay Chief Zamuna N10 million in damages and reinstate him to his throne within 30 days.
The judge stated in his judgement that the industrial court had the jurisdiction to hear the case and found that El-Rufai’s administration did not follow due process in dethroning the third-class monarch.
The court ruled the monarch’s removal as unconstitutional, illegal, and unfair, and ordered that Chief Zamuna be reinstated with all salaries and privileges restored.
It is worth recalling that former Governor El-Rufai had dethroned Chief Zamuna on May 22, 2023, just days before the end of his tenure.
Justice Alkali’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures in matters of traditional leadership.
The judgment has been hailed as a significant affirmation of the rule of law and the protection of traditional institutions from arbitrary actions by governmental authorities.
This ruling marks a notable victory for Chief Zamuna and his supporters, who have maintained that his removal was politically motivated and unjust.
The court’s decision not only restores Chief Zamuna to his rightful position but also sends a clear message regarding the sanctity of traditional rulership and the need for due process in any attempts to alter such leadership structures.
The Kaduna State government has been instructed to comply with the court’s orders promptly, ensuring that Chief Zamuna resumes his duties as the paramount ruler of Piriga Chiefdom without further delay.
The reinstatement of the monarch, coupled with the compensation awarded, is expected to restore stability and respect for traditional authority in the region.
