Zamfara Government Reverses Stance as Governor Lawal Congratulates Tinubu’s Appointee Previously Rejected Over Religious Background

The Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has warmly welcomed Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, the newly appointed Federal Permanent Secretary, despite previous objections based on her Christian family background.

Governor Lawal hosted Dr. Maryam on Sunday, emphasizing solidarity and support. This comes after initial rejection from the state government due to concerns about her father’s Christian faith. Dr. Maryam, among eight appointees announced by President Bola Tinubu, faced scrutiny over her family’s religious affiliation, despite her conversion to Islam and her marriage to a Yoruba Muslim.

In a statement, Governor Lawal congratulated Dr. Maryam, urging her to be a commendable ambassador for Zamfara and pledging full support for her role. The governor highlighted her appointment as a significant achievement, encouraging her to aid in the state’s development.

Earlier, Zamfara’s Head of Service had expressed concerns to the federal government, citing local unease and claims of her not being an indigene. However, sources revealed that the real objection stemmed from her father’s role as a pastor in the ECWA church. Despite the controversy, Dr. Maryam, originally from Tsafe Local Government Area, was celebrated by the governor, marking a new chapter of inclusivity in Zamfara’s political landscape.