The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Oyo State Chapter, has commended the state government for approving the use of hijab as part of the official school uniform for Muslim female students in public schools.
The decision followed complaints from parents, led by Ayanrinde Daud, who reported that some missionary public schools had refused to admit students wearing the hijab. MURIC said it promptly intervened in the matter.
The State Secretary of MURIC, Ibrahim Agunbiade, accompanied the affected parents and students to the office of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Nurain Adeniran. According to him, Dr Adeniran assured them that the issue would be addressed within a week.
However, within two days, Dr. Adeniran informed MURIC that the state government had directed that no student should be discriminated against based on religious appearance. He explained that the decision was jointly endorsed by the Chairmen of SUBEB and the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), as well as the Commissioner for Education.
Following the directive, all students previously denied entry into their schools due to wearing the hijab have been asked to return immediately and resume their academic activities.
MURIC described the move as a “historic victory for justice, equality and the protection of fundamental human rights.” The group also praised the Oyo State Government, SUBEB, TESCOM and the Ministry of Education for their quick response and commitment to fairness.
It urged parents and students to report any further cases of denial or harassment to its Oyo State Chapter for necessary action.
