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Abdulhafiz Umar Barau has emerged as the candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) for Zamfara Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, following the successful completion of the party’s substitution and affirmation process.
The affirmation exercise was concluded on August 20, 2026, following the voluntary withdrawal of the candidate earlier nominated by the party for the senatorial district.
Barau subsequently completed the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination requirements before participating in the formal substitution and affirmation process, paving the way for his emergence as the NRM candidate for the district.
Zamfara Central comprises Gusau, Tsafe, Bungudu and Maru Local Government Areas.
From NDC to NRM
Barau’s emergence on the NRM platform followed his resignation from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on August 1, 2026, amid disagreements over the party’s nomination process for Zamfara Central.
He joined the NRM on the same day following a series of political engagements and efforts aimed at resolving the disagreement.
The development had also led to proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja. However, following further consultations, Barau directed his legal team to discontinue the case, explaining that he had chosen to move beyond the dispute and focus on his broader aspiration to serve the people of Zamfara Central.
According to him, the decision to discontinue the case should not be interpreted as an admission or concession on the substantive issues involved, but rather as a deliberate step towards bringing the matter to a formal close and redirecting his attention to the electorate.
“The Platform Has Changed, But the Purpose Has Not”
Speaking after his affirmation as the NRM candidate, Barau said his decision to move to a new political platform had not altered the fundamental objective of his political aspiration.
“The platform has changed, but the purpose has not. The people remain the reason.”
He described the party ticket as an opportunity to seek the mandate of the people rather than a guarantee of electoral victory.
“A political ticket is not a victory and it is not a crown. It simply gives you the opportunity to stand before the people and ask for their trust. The real decision belongs to the people.”
Barau said his campaign would focus on direct engagement with communities across Gusau, Tsafe, Bungudu and Maru, with emphasis on practical solutions to the challenges confronting residents.
He identified security, agriculture, education, economic opportunities, youth and women empowerment, support for vulnerable communities and effective federal representation as key priorities.
According to him, ensuring that farmers can safely access their farms and that communities are able to pursue their livelihoods without fear would remain central to his agenda.
Barau Advocates Issue-Based Campaign
The NRM candidate also called on political actors, supporters and other aspirants to embrace tolerance, civility and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 election.
“Those seeking the same mandate through other political parties are our political competitors, not our enemies. An election will come and go, but Zamfara will remain our home.”
Barau maintained that the Senate seat should not be viewed as an entitlement, urging voters to assess candidates based on their character, track record, ideas and capacity to deliver.
“Neither I nor any other candidate is entitled to this seat. We must present ourselves before the people, and the people will decide.”
He expressed appreciation to supporters who stood by him throughout the political developments of recent months, while also acknowledging citizens who questioned or criticised some of his decisions.
According to Barau, the conclusion of the NRM substitution process provides an opportunity to put recent political disagreements behind and concentrate on the issues that directly affect the people.
“Our communities are dealing with insecurity. Farmers want to work their lands safely. Young people need opportunities. Families are facing difficult economic realities. Communities want development, and citizens want representatives who remain accessible after elections.”
He said these issues would form the core of his engagement with voters throughout the campaign.
Barau pledged to pursue a style of representation anchored on accessibility, accountability, responsible engagement and effective advocacy for the interests of Zamfara Central at the National Assembly.
He also promised to conduct his campaign without personal attacks or unnecessary confrontation, stressing that political ambition should never come at the expense of peace, unity and the dignity of the people.
“No political ambition should be greater than the peace, unity and dignity of our people.”
Barau concluded by calling for continued prayers for peace, security and prosperity across Zamfara State.
“The platform has changed. The purpose has not. The people remain the reason. We are ready to listen, ready to serve and ready to earn the trust of our people. By the grace of Almighty Allah, the journey continues.”
