Woman in purdah joins race for Senate seat in Kwara

 Woman in purdah joins race for Senate seat in Kwara

By Idris Alooma 

A woman observing 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, 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. Her declaration was contained in a statement released recently.

She has held public service roles as a medical personnel and as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Kwara State Water Corporation in 2003, 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 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 note 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.

Constitutional position

A review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) shows 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 religious beliefs.

Sections 65 and 66 outline the qualifications for election into the National Assembly, focusing on citizenship, age, education, and party sponsorship, 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 arise from social or political dynamics rather than legal provisions.