The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said female students in public schools in the state can wear hijab if they wish.
He described Hijab as “a covering which not only beautifies the wearer but also helps in advancing decency in the society.”
Makinde stated this in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Islamic Affairs, Imam AbdRasheed AbdAzeez, to mark this year’s World Hijab Day.
He noted that his administration would not oppose activities and practices that would promote godliness and modesty.
Makinde, who reiterated that female Muslim students who wished to wear hijab in public schools in Oyo State had not been denied their right to do so, cited the School of Nursing, Eleyele and College of Nursing and Midwifery, Eleyele, Ibadan as a few of the examples.
On the theme of this year’s celebration ‘Hijab is our crown, not a crime,’ the governor said no female Muslim should be harassed in Oyo State for wearing hijab.
He said, “I have instructed those in positions of authority in the state’s public service and across all our public schools not to intimidate or harass anyone because of their religious beliefs or practices. Our government is god-fearing and we will continue to preach religious tolerance, equality, and justice, which will further engender peaceful coexistence, love, and togetherness.
“As the theme of this year’s celebration suggests, hijab is the pride of every female Muslim and it remains sacrosanct.”
The governor appealed to various religious heads and leaders to always seek engagement with the state government on any issue in order to avoid a crisis.
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