Woman In Purdah Joins Kwara Central Senate Race

A woman observing purdah, Hajia Halimat Hassan Zarruq, has declared her intention to contest the Kwara Central senatorial seat on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2027 general elections.

Zarruq, from Balogun Fulani ward 1 in Ilorin South local government area, is a longstanding member of the PDP with a record in grassroots mobilisation and local political organisation.

She announced her intention in a statement she made available to newsmen in Ilorin, the state capital, yesterday.

Zarruq has held public service roles as a medical personnel and as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Kwara State Water Corporation, where she was involved in oversight of public utility services.

In the statement, she said her ambition is focused on representation that delivers “tangible benefits” to her constituents.

She listed her priorities to include inclusive governance, economic support for small businesses and artisans, improved access to education and healthcare, and targeted programmes for women and youth.

She also identified teacher welfare as an area requiring policy attention.

She said, “ We’re focusing on youth and women development through advancing of empowerment initiatives, skills acquisition programmes, and economic opportunities.

Also we’re fostering harmony and strengthening social cohesion across all communities in Kwara central.”

Her entry into the race has drawn attention within political circles, particularly because she observes purdah, a religious and cultural practice associated with modesty and limited public exposure among some Muslim women.

Observers say the development could strengthen ongoing advocacy for greater female participation in politics, especially in northern Nigeria where cultural and religious considerations have historically influenced women’s visibility in public life.

By seeking elective office while maintaining her religious observance, analysts noted that her candidacy may challenge prevailing assumptions about the compatibility of cultural practices and political engagement, potentially encouraging more women to consider active roles in governance.