The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria B-Zone has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the ban on the use of the Niqab by the management of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).
In a statement by MSSN made available to Newsclick Nigeria, the body said: “This decision has ignited a crisis that is both unnecessary and deeply troubling, especially considering the apparent hypocrisy exhibited by the school management in handling this matter after a court case incident”.
This unfortunate decision by FUNAAB’s management comes in the wake of a recent court case involving an incident, and it is disheartening to see that the university’s administration has chosen to respond with such a draconian measure. While it is important to respect the need for institutions to maintain order and security, we believe that the ban on Niqab is a disproportionate and unjustifiable response. The actions of the school management, which, instead of upholding the principles of justice and freedom, appear to be more interested in stifling the rights of its Muslim student population.
We would like to draw attention to the hypocrisy evident in the actions of FUNAAB’s management, While they claim to be upholding security, they have ignored the fact that several other federal institutions across the country have accommodated the use of Niqab and have managed to uphold peaceful coexistence among their diverse student populations without any compromise to safety or order. However, it is perplexing that the FUNAAB case seems to be taking a different and regressive path. This inconsistency raises questions about the institution’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, the principles of fairness and religious tolerance.
Furthermore, we strongly condemn the actions of the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ayo Edun during his address to the Muslim students. The ACP instead of upholding the principles of impartiality and maintaining peace, has shown bias in this matter by threatening the studentship of Muslim students. It is disheartening to witness a security agent, whose primary duty is to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, engaging in actions that further exacerbate tensions and divisions within the university community. It is unacceptable for any law enforcement officer to threaten the studentship of Muslim students who are simply exercising their constitutional right to express their religious beliefs. We call upon the relevant authorities to take appropriate disciplinary action against any law enforcement officer found to be acting in a bias and unprofessional manner. It is imperative that the rule of law should prevail and that all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, are treated fairly and equitably by those entrusted with maintaining law and order.
We are also deeply concerned about the reported threats to the studentship of Muslim students who seek to engage in constructive dialogue with the Vice Chancellor to address this issue. We firmly believe that every student has the right to express their concerns and grievances to the university administration without fear of reprisal. This intimidation is not in line with the principles of justice and fairness that should guide any educational institution.
We are urging FUNAAB’s management to reconsider its decision and protect the fundamental rights of female Muslim students to the use of face veil as contained in the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria and pronounced by our superior courts of record.
In the light of these developments, we call on urgent intervention of the Federal Government of Nigeria to in this matter. It is crucial that despite the government’s effort to uphold the constitutional rights and freedoms of all its citizens, to practice their religion freely without discrimination or harassment, there are some others sabotaging these efforts.
MSSN B-Zone wants to reassure all Muslim students at FUNAAB and other institutions of learning that we stand in unwavering support of the rights and freedoms of every Muslim student. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our voices are heard, and rights of Muslim students are protected. We implore our brothers and sisters to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute in our pursuit of justice.
In conclusion, MSSN B-Zone remains committed to advocating for the rights and freedoms of Muslim students across our zone and Nigeria as a whole. We will continue to stand by the side of every Muslim student, and together, we will strive to protect and preserve the values of inclusivity, diversity, and religious freedom in our educational institutions.
Signed
Barrister Qaasim Odedeji
Amir/Zonal Coordinator
Alh. Abdul Jalil Abdur Razaq
Secretary
Tahir Mas’ud
Public Relations Officer