The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the Ekiti State Government to investigate allegations that Muslim students in public schools are being denied the use of hijab and compelled to take Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) despite registering for Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK).
The call followed allegations by the League of Imams and Alfas in Ekiti State at its monthly meeting held at the Central Mosque, Iyin-Ekiti, on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026.
In a statement issued on Monday, Sept. 28, MURIC’s Founder and Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, described the allegations as serious and urged the state government to establish the facts and take corrective measures where violations are found.
According to Akintola, the alleged denial of hijab and imposition of CRK on Muslim students raise questions about religious freedom and the rights of children in public schools.
He said MURIC was particularly concerned by the allegation that female Muslim students were being prevented from wearing hijab in public schools, describing the practice as inconsistent with the constitutional protection of religious freedom.
Akintola also alleged that education authorities were imposing CRK on Muslim students who had registered for IRK, urging the government to stop what he described as an unconstitutional practice.
He cited Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and religion, as part of the legal basis for his position.
The MURIC director further urged the state government to investigate the allegations made by the League of Imams and Alfas and ensure that students are not discriminated against on the basis of their religious beliefs.
He also referred to previous incidents involving Muslims in Ekiti, including an alleged attack on worshippers at a mosque in Ikun, Moba Local Government Area, and controversies surrounding the demolition of mosques in the state.
Akintola said the organisation was concerned that such incidents, alongside the latest allegations, could affect religious harmony in the state if not properly addressed.
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He therefore called on the Ekiti State Government to engage with Muslim leaders and other stakeholders to resolve the issues and strengthen religious tolerance in public schools.
MURIC maintained that any investigation into the allegations should establish whether the reported restrictions and religious instruction practices occurred and determine appropriate measures in accordance with Nigerian law.
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