From Alfred Babs, Ilorin

Bishops of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Dioceses of Kwara state have called on Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to follow the example of the governor of Oyo state, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde on his policy on the use of hijab in public schools in the state.

The meeting condemned the recent fracas occasioned by non-admittance of hijab-wearing students into the premises of Oyun Baptist High School, Ijagbo, Oyun local government area of Kwara state.

Presided over by Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Kwara, Most Reverend Israel Amoo, the Bishops said, “the uniforms/dress codes prescribed for schools are reflections of religious tenets and beliefs. Thus any attempt by any Government, body, organisation or individuals to alter or adulterate such uniforms amounts to blatant infringement on the fundamental rights of the pupils and children, and is capable of creating confusion in their young minds.
“We expressed displeasure on the forceful introduction of hijab to the uniforms of Christians schools in Kwara State, because it is illegal, unconstitutional and undue distraction from the needed focus which could help raise the standard of education in the state.

The church maintained that unconditional return of all Christian schools in the state to their original owners would bring a lasting solution to the problem which, it said is now assuming a terrifying and alarming magnitude.

“We hereby refer Kwara state government to the policy adopted by Oyo state which guaranteed peace and harmonious coexistence, it is herein stated as follow:

“In Muslim named/faith-based public schools, the usage/wearing of hijab as part of the school uniform is allowed in accordance with Islamic tradition/religious belief of student who may wish to do so.

“In Christian named/faith-based public schools, the student’s uniform should be in line with established tradition of the school and Christian religion.

“In Community based public schools the usage/wearing of a common hijab/beret by female students is permissible. This is however optional for parents/students who wish to do so.

“Under No circumstance or guise should any student/parents, group, or body contravene the provisions in paragraphs i, ii, and iii above. Any contravention of these provisions would attract appropriate disciplinary sanctions including immediate expulsion of affected students from school.”

“We further urge the Executive Governor of Kwara state, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to use his good offices to restore normalcy to schools in the state and reverse the order permitting
the use of hijab in Christian schools for the sake of peace and good neighbourliness”.