Female Student Wearing Hijab Caught With Phone, Earpiece During Exam – Law School Says
The Nigerian Law School has denied allegations that female Muslim candidates wearing hijab were harassed, intimidated or prevented from taking the Bar Final Examinations held on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
The institution described the reports as false, insisting that it has no policy or institutional practice of religious discrimination and remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights and religious freedoms of all candidates.
The denial comes amid controversy over the alleged enforcement of the Law School’s examination dress code and reported objections by Muslim groups to the treatment of female candidates wearing hijab.
In an official statement signed by its Secretary to Council and Director of Administration, A.O. Osho, the Law School said its examinations were conducted under established regulations designed to ensure proper identification, examination security and academic integrity.
The institution, however, disclosed that a female Bar Part I student wearing hijab was apprehended on October 29, 2026, after she was allegedly found with electronic devices concealed on her body.
“On the 29th day of October 2026, a Bar Part I female student with her Hijab on was found with ear pod and a phone strapped to her thigh. This incident is still being investigated under the school rules and extant regulations,” the statement said.
The Law School said the incident reinforced the need for strict examination security measures, while stressing that such measures must be applied fairly and without disrimination.
“The apprehension of the female student for examination malpractice during the Bar Part I examinations further underscores the necessity for strict and effective examination security measures. Such measures, however, must be applied fairly and without discrimination,” it added.
The institution also said it recognises the constitutional protections provided under Sections 38 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which cover religious freedom and protection against discrimination.
It maintained that it respects the religious rights of candidates while taking steps to protect the integrity of its examinations.
“Management is taking steps to verify the reported incidents and will address any established departure from approved institutional procedures in accordance with due process,” the statement said.
The Law School urged stakeholders to avoid drawing conclusions before the ongoing verification process was completed.
“The Nigerian Law School therefore urges stakeholders to exercise restraint, avoid premature conclusions and allow the appropriate institutional processes to establish the facts,” it added.
