JAMB SUPERVISOR AND PEFTI DISALLOW HIJAB: MURIC KICKS

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has kicked against the action of the Supervisor of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and PEFTI for allegedly forcing a Muslim girl, Lawal Hameedat Adenike, a teenager, to remove her hijab before writing the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

A statement issued on Friday, 16th May, 2025, by the Ambassador and General Secretary of MURIC, Oyo State Chapter, Amb. Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade asked both JAMB and PEFTI authorities to sanction the erring supervisor as a deterrent to other ignorant religious bigots like him.

The full statement reads:

“The JAMB Supervisor of the examination taken on Friday, 25th April, 2025, at the PEFTI CBT Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State. Infringed on Allah-given fundamental rights of female Muslim students by forcing her to remove her hijab before entering the examination hall.

This blatant disregard for Muslims’ rights is unacceptable and contrary to court rulings; this violates Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. It is the duty of JAMB and PEFTI management to protect these fundamental rights, especially for minors who cannot defend themselves.”

MURIC demands an Immediate apology to the affected student, Respect for Muslims’ constitutional rights to wear hijab, and Sanctions for erring supervisors to prevent future occurrences.”

We stand in solidarity with affected student and urge JAMB to uphold constitutional rights. Religious freedom and tolerance are essential in educational settings.

MURIC calls on JAMB and PEFTI authorities to reaffirm students’ rights to wear hijab. Provide clear guidelines protecting religious freedoms. Ensure supervisors respect students’ rights.”

We will continue monitoring this situation and advocating for Muslims’ rights.

Amb. Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade

General Secretary,

Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) Oyo State Chapter.