Hijab Controversy: Muslim Group Condemns NYSC Official’s Action in FCT

The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria, has strongly condemned the reported denial of clearance to a female Muslim corps member in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) allegedly because she wore a knee-length hijab.

In a statement released on Thursday, MPAC described the action by a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Local Inspector as “unlawful and unacceptable,” arguing that it violated the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and personal expression.

According to MPAC, the incident was promptly addressed after the Muslim Corpers’ Association of Nigeria (MCAN) intervened and reached out to relevant NYSC authorities. The corps member's right to clearance was eventually restored.

“We commend MCAN’s swift and effective response. Their intervention highlights how crucial it is for institutions to stand up for the religious rights of Muslim citizens,” said MPAC Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor.

While this particular issue has been resolved, Kamor stressed that it was far from an isolated case. He pointed out that Muslim female corps members across the country still face various forms of discrimination for choosing to wear the hijab, which he described as “an essential and non-negotiable part of their faith.”

He urged the NYSC Director-General to issue a clear and public directive to all coordinators, inspectors, and officials across the country, reminding them of corps members' constitutional rights—especially the right to wear religious clothing such as the hijab.

“As a federal agency, NYSC should lead by example in promoting religious tolerance and upholding the law. No official has the authority to enforce personal bias or create unofficial dress codes,” Kamor emphasized.

He added that the hijab should not be viewed as a political or rebellious statement but as a legitimate expression of faith.

“Denying Muslim women their right to wear the hijab goes against the spirit of democracy and the founding principles of the NYSC—unity in diversity, respect, and service,” he said.

MPAC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to defending the rights of Muslim citizens and pledged to continue monitoring such incidents. The organization warned it would pursue legal or institutional actions if similar violations occurred in the future.