Hijab Controversy: Law School Finally Clears Hijab-wearing Firdaus Amasa For Call-to-bar

 

 

A hijab wearing law graduate from the University of Ilorin , Firdaus Amasa, who was denied the honour of call-to-bar at Nigerian Law School last year, because she refused to remove her hijab, has finally been formally cleared to attend the upcoming 'Called to Bar' ceremony in July.

 

According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), friends, associates and family of Firdaus, took to social media on Thurday to celebrate her as she emerged victorious on her religious belief after months of legal battle.

 

It was learnt that MURIC took over the young lawyer’s case since last year when she was turned down by authorities of the Law School for the her Call to Bar because was refused to removed her hijab. 

 

A source in the Body of Benchers confirmed the development to The Guardian, saying Amasa had been invited to attend the Call to Bar programme next month.

 

The Nation reported that in a press statement issued by the Director, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Ishaq Akintola, the Muslim body commended the Body of Benchers for reviewing the case and for allowing professionalism to be the deciding factor.

 

 

MURIC also thanked all Muslims who intervened in the matter, saying: “We are also grateful to the House of Representatives for the positive role it played in the matter.

 

 

We felicitate with all Islamic organizations as well as Muslim brothers and sisters who stood with us all these days, particularly during the aborted public hearing in the National Assembly,” it said.

 

Meanwhile, The Nigeria Lawyer (TNL) reports that the correct position is that a decision was taken to allow Firdaus Amasa to be called to the Bar wearing a small covering over her hair.

 

The Honourable Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa style, while the Body of Benchers continues to deliberate on appropriate means of a dress code generally.

 

“She will now be given her certificate; a thing of joy, victory to justice, fairness to humanity," Yushua Abdul tweeted to celebrate Firdaus' victory.

 

Another post by Abubakar Usman read: “JUST IN: Nigerian Law School: Body Of Benchers Approves Use Of Hijab, Invites Amara Firdaus. The Body of Benchers has approved the use of hijab during Call to Bar ceremony of young lawyers and that Firdaus Amasa."

 

Muhammed Ayuba also Tweeted: “Nigeria Law school approved the use of hijab during call to bar and call Amasa Firdous to bar…..Alhamdulillah for this great news.’’

 

Another Tweet by A. A. Sanyaolu, said: “Hijab approved at law schools in Nigeria, you dey jubilate. That was expected because no such law against it but law school code of conduct. Don’t be too religious about it."