Lagos Govt Recalls Principal Over Forceful Removal Of Hijab On Student

… Orders investigation, vows to sanction any erring principal

The Lagos State government has recalled and ordered an investigation of the principal of Eletu-Odibo Junior High School, Abule-Oja, Yaba, Lagos, and other officials of the school who forcefully removed hijab on a female Muslim student of the school.

According to reports, the principal of the school along with other officials was said to have forcefully removed the female student’s hijab while on school premises.

This, in a circular issued by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary Education District IV, Osinaike Olusegun Olawale, on Thursday said their action violated the supreme court judgement on hijab.

Olawale, in circular No. 2022/087, addressed to all principals, warned that anyone caught violating the supreme court judgement on hijab in schools will face dire consequences.

The statement reads: “Consequent upon the Supreme Court judgement on the use of hijab in Lagos State Schools delivered on 17th June, 2022 and the Head of Service Circular No. 068, dated 5th December, 2022 which was made available to all principals through the Information Platform (E34 Notice formation), available information at our disposal alleged that the principal of Eletu-Odibo Junior High School, Abule-Oja, Yaba decided to violate the judgement of the Apex Court and the H.O.S Circular, which is tantamount to misconduct and punishable under the Lagos State Public Service Rule (PSR).

“However, the principal and other officers involved have been recalled from the school with immediate effect, while an investigation is ongoing.

“For the avoidance of doubt, henceforth, any principal or staff member caught assaulting students on the issue of hijab or in one way or the other contravenes the hijab judgement will face dire consequences. It should be of note that the Lagos State Government strictly frowns at disobedience and will be viewed seriously,” he stated.