No plans to ban use of hijab – Presidency

The Presidency has dismissed claims that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government intends to ban the use of Hijab.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, while giving clarifications on Buhari’s pronouncement during the Media Chat on Wednesday said the speculations were unfounded.

Shehu stated that the Buhari administration would always respect the rights of Muslims and allow religious freedom as it affects everyone.

Admitting that terrorists have abused the use of Hijab to perpertrate suicide attacks on innocent people, which is against the teachings of Islam, Shehu said Buhari would not take any decision on the issue without due consultation with all the stakeholders.

“The increasing abuse of the Hijab by terrorists to perpetrate criminal mass murder and other atrocities is a reality, and the government would address the security challenge in consultations with Muslim leaders with a view to finding a workable solution.

“Everything will be done to balance national security requirements with the rights and obligations of citizens under their religions as protected by the constitution,” Shehu said.

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