MURIC kicks over denial of Muslim students right to wear Hijab in OAU school

Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has kicked against the decision of the authorities of International School, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to deny Muslim students the right to wear the hijab.

MURIC described the development as a violation of students’ rights.

This is contained in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Professor Isiaq Akintola, on Monday.

Akintola alleged that female Muslim students of the school, who wore the Hijab, were recently locked out of school.

Akintola described the situation as a sad development, insisting the school’s action was discriminatory, deplorable and tyrannical.

He maintained that the decision of the school constitutes a gross violation of the Allah-given fundamental human rights of the students.

Akintola urged the school to respect the laws of the land regarding freedom of religion, describing the decision as illegal and unconstitutional.

He added that the decision of the school contradicts section 38(i) and (ii), which guarantees freedom of religion for all.

‎”Hijab-wearing female Muslim students of the International School, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, were recently locked out of school for weeks because the authorities refused to allow them into the school compound unless they removed their hijabs.

“MURIC charges the authorities of OAU and the International School to respect the laws of the land regarding freedom of religion. One faith should not be used to oppress another.

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“It is illegal, illegitimate, unlawful and unconstitutional to disallow Muslim students from enjoying religious freedom, which the Constitution guarantees them in Section 38(i)&(ii).”