MURIC kicks over denial of Muslim students right to wear Hijab in OAU school
Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned the decision by the authorities at the International School of Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife to prohibit female Muslim students from wearing hijabs.
In a statement issued on Monday, Executive Director Professor Isiaq Akintola characterized the move as a violation of students’ rights. Akintola reported that female students who chose to wear hijabs were recently excluded from attending classes.
He described the school’s actions as discriminatory and tyrannical. “The decision constitutes a gross violation of the fundamental human rights of the students,” he stated.
MURIC called on the university to adhere to national laws that protect freedom of religion, labeling the school’s ruling as illegal and unconstitutional. Akintola pointed out that the actions of the university are at odds with Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion.
He emphasized that hijab-wearing students were essentially locked out of the school premises for weeks due to the administration’s refusal to allow them entry unless they removed their hijabs.
“MURIC urges the authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University and the International School to uphold the laws of the land regarding religious freedom,” Akintola said, adding that no faith should be used to marginalize others. He reiterated, “It is illegal and unconstitutional to deny Muslim students their right to religious freedom, which is guaranteed by the Constitution.”
