The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Oyo State Chapter, has commended the recent ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which declared unconstitutional the National Youth Service Corps’ (NYSC) policy barring female corps members from wearing skirts for religious reasons.
The judgment, delivered in the cases FHC/ABJ/CS/989/2020 and FHC/ABJ/CS/988/2020, was filed by two Christian corps members, Ogunjobi Blessing and Ayuba Vivian, who challenged the NYSC dress code, arguing that trousers violated their religious beliefs. The court ruled in their favour, recognizing their right to dress in accordance with their faith.
Read full judgment details here
In a joint statement signed by Barrister W. O. Lawal, Chairman, and Amb. Malam Ibrahim Agunbiade, Secretary of MURIC Oyo State Chapter, the organization described the judgment as a “landmark victory” for religious freedom and expression not only for Christians, but also for Muslims who have long advocated for the right to wear the hijab and other modest religious attire during national service.
“This judgment strengthens the cause of religious accommodation and respect for diverse faiths in Nigeria. It shows that constitutional rights to freedom of religion and expression must be upheld, even within uniformed institutions like the NYSC,” the statement noted.
MURIC further called on Christian stakeholders to reconsider their opposition to Muslim women wearing the hijab in public institutions, pointing out that the plaintiffs in this case are themselves Christians who found the NYSC trousers contrary to their religious convictions.
“With this precedent, it becomes clear that the demand for hijab or modest attire by Muslim women should be viewed through the same lens of religious freedom and dignity,” MURIC added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Islamic values, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society.
