Borno State governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has said he received with great concern a statement by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) alleging the harassment of Muslim women for wearing hijab in some hospitals in Maiduguri, the State capital.
He noted that while the government was not aware of any official report or complaint regarding such incidents, his administration has taken the allegations with utmost seriousness.
In a directive issued on Thursday through his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum ordered the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Professor Baba Mallam Gana, to undertake an immediate and thorough investigation to ascertain the veracity of the claims by MURIC.
The statement noted that Zulum reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting all citizens’ religious rights and dignity, particularly those of women. He stated that Borno State, being a predominantly muslim society, holds hijab in high esteem and any form of harassment against those who choose to wear it was unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“The welfare and rights of our citizens, especially our mothers, wives, and daughters, are paramount. We have zero-tolerance for any form of discrimination or harassment. While we have no prior record of such complaints, we are not taking these allegations lightly. This investigation will be swift and transparent. If any wrongdoing is found, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken immediately,” Zulum assured.
The statement added that Zulum urged the public, and specifically individuals who have experienced such maltreatment, to come forward and assist in the investigation with credible information to ensure a fair and just outcome.
“I assure the public that Borno State government under my leadership will not tolerate any action that unjustly targets or humiliate any segment of our society,” Zulum concluded.
