MURIC Hails Landmark Hijab Judgement, Says It Is Victory For Constitution, Rule Of Law, Religious Freedom
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Raji Adebayo
The Oyo State Chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has hailed the landmark judgment delivered on Monday, 20th July, 2026, by the High Court of Justice, Iyaganku, Ibadan, presided over by Hon. Justice Y. S. Adekunle, affirming the constitutional right of female Muslim students to wear the Islamic hijab in all government-owned public schools in Oyo State, including those historically known as missionary schools.
This position was contained in a statement issued by the General Secretary of MURIC, Oyo State Chapter, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade.
The judgment in Suit No. I/47/2026: Sumaiya Ayanrinde & 4 Ors. v. Governor of Oyo State & 3 Ors. is a resounding victory for constitutionalism, justice, the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The judge rightly held that the directive prohibiting female Muslim students from wearing the hijab in government-owned public schools violated their constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, freedom from discrimination, and their right to education.
The Court further declared that government-owned schools must remain secular, impartial and free from religious bias or exclusion, irrespective of the historical names borne by such schools.
Agunbiade noted that particularly commendable is the Court’s order directing the Oyo State Government to issue an official circular to all government-owned public schools permitting eligible female Muslim students to wear the hijab as part of their approved school uniform.
According to the statement, “The grant of perpetual injunction restraining further enforcement of the unconstitutional policy has equally reinforced the supremacy of the Constitution over discriminatory administrative practices.
“MURIC congratulates the courageous Muslim parents, guardians and students whose determination to seek justice through lawful means has culminated in this historic judgment. Their patience, perseverance and unwavering confidence in the judiciary have been richly rewarded.
“We equally salute the legal team led by Barrister Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, alongside all counsel who worked tirelessly to defend the constitutional rights of Muslim schoolgirls. Their professional diligence and commitment to justice deserve the appreciation of all lovers of democracy and human rights.
“MURIC also commends Hon. Justice Y. S. Adekunle for this well-considered judgment, which has further strengthened public confidence in the Nigerian judiciary as the last hope of the common man.
“We urge the Oyo State Government to comply fully and without delay with every aspect of the judgment by issuing the necessary directives to all relevant education authorities and school administrators. Compliance with valid court orders remains a hallmark of democratic governance and respect for the rule of law.
“Furthermore, we call on school administrators, teachers, parents and members of the public to receive this judgment with maturity, tolerance and mutual respect. This victory should not be viewed as a triumph of one religion over another but as a reaffirmation of the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to practise his or her religion without fear, intimidation or discrimination.
“The Muslim community in Oyo State is advised to celebrate this judicial victory peacefully, responsibly and within the ambit of the law. We must continue to demonstrate that dialogue, lawful engagement and confidence in the judiciary remain the most effective means of resolving disputes in a democratic society.
“Finally, we express profound gratitude to Almighty Allah (SWT) for granting justice after years of perseverance. We pray that He continues to guide our leaders, strengthen our judiciary and preserve peace, harmony and religious coexistence in Oyo State and throughout Nigeria.
“Indeed, Allah commands justice, excellence and kindness…” (Qur’an 16:90).
