MURIC calls for restraint, says legal battle over ISI hijab policy not over

Michael Olumide

Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Oyo State Chapter, has announced that it has filed a Notice of Appeal and a Motion for Stay of Execution following the Court of Appeal judgment on the hijab controversy involving the International School, University of Ibadan (ISI), warning the school management against implementing its directive banning the use of hijab by female students pending the determination of the appeal.

In a press release signed by the General Secretary of MURIC, Oyo State Chapter, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, the organisation expressed concern over the school’s public notice directing that, from Monday, July 6, 2026, female students would no longer be permitted to wear the hijab with the school uniform, citing the Court of Appeal judgment delivered on Friday, July 3, 2026.

While affirming its respect for the judiciary and commitment to the rule of law, MURIC disclosed that its national body,

The Incorporated Trustees of Muslim Rights Concern, had on the same day filed and served a Notice of Appeal alongside a Motion for Stay of Execution/Injunction Pending Appeal before the appropriate court.

According to the group, the filing of the appeal means that the legal dispute over the rights of Muslim female students to wear the hijab is still before the courts and has not reached a final conclusion.

MURIC argued that enforcing the Court of Appeal judgment before the pending application for stay is determined would be inappropriate and could prejudice the judicial process.

“The filing and service of these legal processes signify that the legal contest is far from concluded. The issues surrounding the rights of Muslim female students to wear the hijab remain subject to further judicial consideration,” the statement said.

The organisation urged the management of the International School, University of Ibadan, to exercise restraint by suspending the implementation of the directive until the court decides on the pending motion.

It maintained that adherence to due process and respect for judicial proceedings remain essential to protecting fundamental rights and preserving peaceful coexistence.

MURIC further cautioned that any attempt to enforce the directive before the determination of the application could render the pending legal process ineffective and unnecessarily heighten tensions within the school community.

The group also appealed to Muslim parents, guardians, students and members of the Muslim community to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that there should be no confrontation or actions capable of disrupting public order.

Expressing confidence in the judicial system, MURIC said it believes the courts would provide all parties with a fair hearing in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The organisation reiterated its commitment to pursuing the matter through lawful legal channels until a final judicial determination is reached.

“MURIC reassures Muslim parents and the general public that we remain resolute in the lawful defence of the constitutional rights of Muslim students.
We shall continue to pursue this matter through every legitimate legal avenue until justice is served,” the statement added.

The group concluded by praying for justice, the protection of students and the continued peace and unity of Nigeria.