Barr Hassan Maru is no stranger to Zamfara politics. He served as Senior Special Assistant to former Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle and also chaired the Zamfara APC Youth Reconciliation Coalition. His decision to return to the PDP and seek legislative office has drawn attention within the party and among constituents who view him as a figure with both legal background and grassroots experience.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the screening, Barrister outlined insecurity as the central issue he would pursue if elected in 2027. He stated that as a lawyer familiar with the workings of the law, he would not relent in bringing motions and pushing for concrete legislative action until the state’s security situation improves. According to him, the fight against insecurity must be treated as the foundation for every other development effort in Zamfara. He argued that without peace and safety, efforts to boost the economy or reduce poverty would have limited effect, because investors and citizens alike cannot plan for the future under constant threat.
Barrister linked the security challenge directly to governance and political choices, criticizing Governor Dauda Lawal’s recent defection from the PDP to the APC. He said the move reflected a misunderstanding of where political legitimacy comes from, suggesting that the governor had forgotten that his mandate came through Allah's will and the support of the people. He expressed confidence that voters would hold the governor accountable in 2027, predicting that the PDP would reclaim the state and that Lawal would lose his seat early at 11:00AM on election day. He added that the APC defection would not shield the governor from the consequences of what he described as a miscalculation.
The aspirant dismissed claims that the PDP had weakened in Zamfara, saying the party remains the most organized and credible opposition force in the state. He maintained that no other political platform has the structure, history, and public trust to challenge the ruling party effectively. For him, the PDP’s strength lies in its connection with ordinary citizens and its track record of providing an alternative when governance falls short. He urged party members to remain united and focused on presenting candidates who can restore confidence in leadership.
On governance, Barrister was blunt in his assessment of the current administration. He said Governor Lawal had little to campaign on when it comes to security, poverty alleviation, education, and welfare. He argued that showcasing road projects while people go hungry and communities face daily attacks does not reflect the priorities of the people. According to him, infrastructure has its place, but it cannot substitute for policies that address immediate human needs and create a secure environment for economic activity.
He also questioned the democratic credentials of the present government, pointing to the suspension of nine elected members of the State House of Assembly as evidence of disregard for due process. Barrister described the action as undemocratic and unconstitutional, arguing that a government that undermines the legislature cannot claim to be running a people-centered administration. He said the legislature must remain independent and free to represent the interests of constituents without intimidation, and he pledged to defend that principle if given the mandate.
The aspirant concluded by reiterating that his focus, if elected, would be on legislation that directly confronts insecurity and poverty. He said the assembly should serve as a platform for holding the executive accountable and for initiating policies that improve livelihoods. His message resonated with party supporters present at the secretariat, many of whom expressed optimism that his legal training and political experience could strengthen the PDP’s legislative team.
The screening exercise is part of the PDP’s broader effort to present credible candidates across Zamfara ahead of the 2027 elections. Party officials have stated that the process will be guided by merit, capacity, and the ability of aspirants to connect with voters at the grassroots. With Barrister's submission and successful screening, the contest for the State House of Assembly seat in his constituency is expected to attract close attention as the political season intensifies.
