A woman in purdah, Hajia Halimat Funmilayo Hassan Zarruq, has declared her intention to contest the Kwara Central senatorial seat on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Zarruq, who hails from Balogun Fulani Ward 1 in Ilorin South Local Government Area, is a longstanding member of the PDP with a track record in grassroots mobilisation and local political organisation.
Her declaration was contained in a statement released recently.
She has previously served in public roles as a medical professional and as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Kwara State Water Corporation in 2003, where she contributed to the oversight of public utility services.
In the statement, she said her ambition is driven by the need to provide representation that delivers “tangible benefits” to constituents.
She outlined her priorities to include inclusive governance, economic support for small businesses and artisans, improved access to education and healthcare, as well as targeted programmes for women and youth.
She also identified teacher welfare as an area requiring urgent policy attention.
She said : “We are focusing on youth and women development through the advancement of empowerment initiatives, skills acquisition programmes, and economic opportunities.
“We are also fostering harmony and strengthening social cohesion across all communities in Kwara Central.”
Her entry into the race has attracted attention within political circles, particularly due to her observance of purdah—a religious and cultural practice associated with modesty and limited public exposure among some Muslim women.
Observers believe the development could bolster ongoing advocacy for increased female participation in politics, especially in northern Nigeria, where cultural and religious factors have historically influenced women’s visibility in public life.
By seeking elective office while maintaining her religious observance, analysts say her candidacy may challenge prevailing assumptions about the compatibility of cultural practices and political engagement, potentially encouraging more women to take up active roles in governance.
A review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) indicates there is no legal restriction preventing women in purdah from contesting elections.
Section 42 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex or religion, while Section 38 guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to manifest one’s beliefs.
Sections 65 and 66 outline the qualifications for election into the National Assembly, focusing on citizenship, age, education, and party affiliation, without reference to gender or religious practice.
Under the Constitution, eligibility for elective office is not affected by religious observance,including purdah.
Any limitations would stem from social or political dynamics rather than legal provisions.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
