The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) has vowed to legally resist any form of harassment, threat or unjust treatment against hijab-wearing female muslim candidates at centres used in the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This is as reported incidents of harassment of muslim female candidates and seizure of their hijabs sparked concerns among Muslim students as well as religious organisations since Thursday.
The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit issued on Friday, 25 April, 2025, issued a statement on the matter and signed by their Amir (President), Kamoldeen Abiona.
Abiona expressed displeasure over the reported harassment of hijab wearing female UTME candidates in some the centres across Lagos State, especially in the Christian-owned Caleb University in Ikorodu, where hijabs were seized from candidates.
He lamented that despite established guidelines permitting the wearing of hijabs, numerous accounts indicated that some female Muslim candidates are still facing harassment and coercion at examination centres.
Abiona said, “It is disheartening to report ongoing incidents of discrimination against female candidates wearing hijabs during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Reports indicate that, despite established protocols allowing female candidates to wear hijabs, some continue to face harassment. It is disturbing that these incidents persist, infringing on the rights of our Muslim sisters.“Particularly concerning is the recent incident that happened today, Thursday, April 24 at Caleb University, Ikorodu, a Christian institution, where female Muslim candidates were coerced into removing their hijabs to continue writing their exams.
This egregious violation not only disrespects their religious beliefs but is also contrary to legal provisions safeguarding religious freedom and equality.”
The Muslim students’ leader called on the authorities of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to sanction erring UTME Centres to show that it’s not a party to the harassment of hijab-wearing candidates.He also demanded justice for the affected candidates, advocating that they be granted the opportunity to retake their exams without any religious restrictions.
Abiona stated, “The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) must take immediate action. We urge a thorough investigation into these reports and the imposition of appropriate sanctions on any institution found culpable. The safety and dignity of all candidates must be preserved at all examination centres across Nigeria.
“Furthermore, we demand justice for the affected candidates, ensuring they are provided the opportunity to retake their exams unobstructed to ensure fairness and equity in the educational system.
“As the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Lagos State Area Unit, we stand resolutely against such instances of bigotry and infringement on human rights. We remain committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of all students and encourage peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity in educational environments.”
The students issued a strong warning that any centre acting improperly would be subject to legal proceedings. “We will not hesitate to pursue legal action against JAMB and any center found to be harassing female Muslim candidates for their choice to wear hijab. This must stop immediately, as the wearing of hijab is both legally permissible and a religious imperative.” The statement added.
