HIJAB JUDGEMENT: VICTORY NOT FOR RELIGION BUT RULE OF LAW – LASG

The Lagos State Commissioner for home affairs has said that the Appeals Court judgment which granted Muslim female students the right to wear hijab in public schools is a victory for the rule of law and not for a particular religion or its followers.

Dr Abdulhakeem Abdullateef noted that Lagos State Government recognizes the rights to freedom of religion as enshrined in the Constitution and it has not at one any point been in war with any religion or its followers.

“As government we have continued to provide an enabling environment for all citizens irrespective of their religious affiliations. The Appeal Court pronouncements on the use of Hijab in public schools is victory for rule of law, victory for every one”

“No one should see this as war,there is no victor no vanquished in this situation. It is simply a constitutional issue on rights of citizens”, he explained.

The Home Affairs Commissioner stated this in a reaction issued and signed by his Media Assistant, Mr Olalekan Murisiku in Lagos on the judgment of the Court of Appeal in Lagos State when the right to wear Hijab (Islamic headscarf) in public schools was granted to Thursday, July 21, 2016.

Dr Abdullateef explained that the present administration under the leadership of Governor Akinwumi Ambode since inception has continuously supported religious activities in the State.

“We have always condemned harassment, victimisation, and any other forms of wickedness on any individuals on basis of religion including those who wear the Hijab thereby infringing on their fundamental human Rights recognized by the Constitution”.

Quoting section 38 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Commissioner urged Nigerians to respect the laws of the land and live by the rule of law.

“Above all, people should remain law abiding and respect the constituted authority. In demonstrating and exercising our rights, we must not breach public peace. People should remember that to every right there is corresponding responsibility” he added.

Olalekan Murisiku
Media Assistant To The Commissioner For Home Affairs