On Wednesday, 27th of October 2021, we received another appalling report from the Director of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Professor Ishaq Akintola about a female Muslim corps member, Abdul Qadir Khadijat Oluwatomi who was victimised for wearing hijab on camp. The incident occurred in the NYSC Camp in Ekiti State and it was reported that she was threatened with expulsion if she insisted on wearing the hijab on camp.
Alhamdulillah within 24 hours through numerous efforts from concerned Muslim bodies and individuals, the matter was finally resolved amicably. In a statement released by Professor Ishaq Akintola, he expressed gratitude to the Director General of the NYSC, General Shuaibu Ibrahim who intervened in the matter and ensured Khadijat and other female Muslim corps members right to wear the hijab is respected.
Although the matter is now resolved, MPAC Nigeria would like to reaffirm that the hijab is obligatory for every female Muslim who has reached the age of puberty once she is outside the home. Securing the right of those who make a free choice to obey this Quranic command is, therefore, necessary for those responsible for policy and decisions and should be irrespective of whether some Muslims observe it or not.
It is quite important for the rights of female Muslims in hijab to be respected as they are entitled to enjoy the freedom of religious expression guaranteed by the Constitution. Moreso, it is crucial to insist that all Nigerians live in a society free of hate, bigotry and discrimination.
MPAC Nigeria will continue to work with organisations and individuals with like mind in securing the rights of Muslim women in our society.
We also use this medium to call on all Muslim organisations, especially the Muslim Corpers Association of Nigeria, MCAN National to remain vigilant and monitor NYSC/camp officials’ compliance to the NYSC guideline released in 2019 permitting female Muslim corps members to wear the hijab as part of the NYSC uniform.
Know your right, and stand by it!
MPAC Nigeria Advocacy.
