JUST IN: Kwara approves use of Hijab in public schools

Kwara State Government on Thursday approved the use of Hijab for all public and grant-aided schools with immediate effect.

The government also directed the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development to come up with a uniform hijab which will be the accepted mode of head covering in schools.

A statement issued by the Secretary to the Kwara State Government Prof Mamma Sabah Jibril on Thursday said any willing schoolgirl with the approved (uniform) hijab shall have the right to wear the same in public/grant-aided schools.

Solacebase reports that the state government last week closed 10 grant-aided schools over the controversy generated with the use of Hijab, as the Muslim students were prevented from going into the schools’ premises that almost led to chaos.

The government said the closure of the 10 schools was to maintain peace and public order as well as prevent mischief-makers from taking undue advantage of the development

The affected schools which are all located in Ilorin, include C&S College Sabo Oke, ST. Anthony College, Offa Road, ECWA School, Oja Iya, Surulere Baptist Secondary School, Bishop Smith Secondary School, Agba Dam, CAC Secondary School Asa Dam road, St. Barnabas Secondary School Sabo Oke, St. John School Maraba, St. Williams Secondary School Taiwo Isale, and St. James Secondary School Maraba.

The statement also said the government affirms the right of every child in public schools to freedom of worship.

Read Also: JUST IN: Kwara closes 10 schools over hijab controversy

The statement read,’’ Sequel to recent developments in our state over the status of the hijab in public/grant-aided schools, the state government has consulted widely with thought leaders and leaders of both Muslim and Christian communities with a view to clarifying issues and reaching a consensus. The last of such meetings was held on Wednesday, February 24, presided by His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.’’

‘’The state government has considered submissions of all major interest groups on the matter. It has also thoroughly considered the education law of Kwara State, the prevailing court judgments and current global trends of multiculturalism in evolving a consultation-based decision that will bring lasting peace and understanding to our communities. The government has also paid particular attention to the ‘declaratory’ nature of the subsisting judgments of the Court of Appeal and their purports.’’

‘’Similarly, the government has carefully noted submissions regarding ownership of grant-aided schools and related issues. While the status of these schools is the subject of judicial determination, this and other related matters will soon be subjected to a technical committee to advise accordingly. The government reassures all members of the public that it will act in good conscience at all times.’’

According to the statement,’’ The government asserts that there is no victor or vanquished on the hijaab question. It urges the two faith communities, especially the leaders, opinion moulders and media personalities to act with restraint and great responsibility in their public utterances and actions and continue to live in peace and harmony with one another. The government commends all the thought and religious leaders on both sides for their forbearance, understanding and commitment to peace.’’

‘’The government hereby directs that the affected 10 schools should reopen to commence classes on Monday 8th March 2021.’’