The League of Imams and Alfas in Ekiti State has raised concerns over the alleged denial of hijab to Muslim female students in public schools and the imposition of Christian Religious Knowledge on Muslim students who registered for Islamic Religious Knowledge. This was stated in a release by the Media Officer-1 of the League, Imam Yusuf T. Akeusola, after its monthly meeting at the Central Mosque, Iyin-Ekiti, on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
According to the statement, the concern was part of reports presented by representatives from the 16 Local Government Areas of the state. Some Imams who teach in public schools and other stakeholders alleged that the practice has persisted for years, particularly among Junior Secondary School students. They claimed Muslim students were compelled to take CRK in state-conducted examinations despite registering for IRK.
The meeting was told that this situation does not occur in national examinations conducted by WAEC and NECO. It was also reported that the Education Committee of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ekiti State, headed by Professor Sulaimon Kamaldeen, had previously petitioned the State Ministry of Education over the matter, but without what they considered an adequate response.
Representatives at the meeting presented facts and evidence to support the claims, including cases of restrictions on the use of hijab in some public schools. The Grand Imam of Ekiti State and President-General, League of Imams and Alfas for South-West, Edo and Delta States, Fadheelat Sheikh Dr. Jamiu Kewulere Bello, condemned the development, warning that it could affect the future of Muslim students and undermine the religious tolerance Ekiti is known for.
Sheikh Kewulere noted that Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has demonstrated commitment to religious harmony and may not be aware of the alleged incidents. He subsequently inaugurated a committee to investigate the reports and submit its findings for appropriate action. The Grand Imam also briefed members on activities since the last meeting, including engagements with heads of tertiary institutions in the state.
The meeting, hosted by Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, was attended by Imams and Alfas from the 16 LGAs and other Muslim stakeholders. The Chief Imam of Iyin-Ekiti, Alhaji Hussein Sanusi, commended the unity and cordial relationship among communities in the area, irrespective of ethnic differences. A stakeholder and Balogun Musulmi of Irepodun/Ifelodun, retired Major Tajudeen Awe, lauded the League’s activities and praised Sheikh Kewulere’s leadership.
The meeting featured special prayers for peace and good governance in Ekiti State, the forthcoming inauguration of the governor’s second term, security across the country, and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The next meeting of the League is scheduled for the last Thursday in November at the Central Mosque, Ire-Ekiti, in Oye Local Government Area.
Key points
- Muslim students in Ekiti State's public schools face alleged restrictions on wearing hijabs and are forced to study Christian Religious Knowledge against their will.
- The League of Imams and Alfas in Ekiti State has petitioned the government to address these issues, citing concerns about the impact on Muslim students' futures.
- The Ekiti State government has been urged to investigate and address these allegations to maintain the state's reputation for religious tolerance.
