Table of Contents
- Maryam's Apology
- The Controversy
- Retracting the Claims
- Emir's Response
- Advice for Parents and Journalists
Maryam has expressed her apologies to the Emir of Mafara in Zamfara State, Dr. Bello Mohammed Barmo, after previously accusing him of coercing her into marriage.
The issue began a few months ago when Maryam and her mother, Hafsat Shehu, claimed that the Emir leveraged his influence to arrange Maryam’s marriage to a businessman, Alhaji Mi’awiyya, without her consent.
During a visit to the Emir’s palace, Maryam’s uncle, Malam Umar Musa, led the family in retracting the accusations.
He stated that the allegations were unfounded and regrettable, labeling them as “the work of Satan.”
“We have come to clear the Emir’s name and seek his forgiveness for the harm our daughter and her mother have caused to his reputation,” Malam Musa remarked.
He further expressed that the family sincerely regretted the misunderstanding, deeming it “unfortunate, baseless, and unnecessary.”
In response, the Emir, Dr. Bello Mohammed Barmo, accepted the family's apology and granted them forgiveness, referencing Islamic principles regarding mercy and forgiveness.
He clarified that his Emirate had never interfered in anyone’s personal marital matters.
“The allegations were an attempt to damage my reputation,” the Emir stated.
He urged parents to honor their daughters’ choices in marriage to prevent future conflicts and foster harmony within the community.
“Marriage is a lifelong commitment that necessitates careful thought and mutual agreement,” the Monarch emphasized.
Dr. Barmo also advised journalists in Zamfara to adhere to professional ethics by verifying stories prior to publication or broadcast to ensure fairness and justice.
“I urge journalists to consistently follow the ethical guidelines of their profession and ensure a fair representation in their reporting before going to air or print,” he said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the nature of the allegations against the Emir?
Maryam and her mother accused the Emir of using his influence to arrange her marriage to a businessman without her consent.
How did the Emir respond to the accusations?
The Emir accepted the family's apology, forgave them, and clarified that he had never interfered in anyone's marital affairs.
What advice did the Emir give to parents regarding marriage?
He urged parents to respect their daughters' choices in marriage to avoid conflicts and promote community harmony.
