The Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan has overturned an earlier High Court judgment that permitted students of the International School, University of Ibadan, ISI, Oyo State, to wear the Islamic headscarf, popularly known as the hijab, as part of the school’s uniform.
Legal
The court declared that the institution is a private school and, therefore, entitled to enforce its dress code.
The appellate court, in a split decision of two to one delivered on Friday, held that the Supreme Court’s judgment permitting the use of hijab in public schools does not apply to private schools such as ISI.
Following the appellate court’s judgment, the management of the International School, University of Ibadan announced the immediate enforcement of its dress code, prohibiting the wearing of hijab or headscarves with the school uniform from Monday, July 6, 2026. Maps
In a notice to parents and guardians titled, “Important Information to Parents and Guardians,” the school informed them of the Court of Appeal’s decision and directed that all students must comply with its rules and regulations.
The notice reads: “Following the judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on Friday, July 3, 2026, declaring The International School, University of Ibadan, a private school, all students are required to comply with the rules and regulations of the School.
“Accordingly, with effect from Monday, July 6, 2026, no student will be allowed to wear a hijab with the school uniform.
“Parents and guardians are kindly requested to ensure that their children comply with this directive. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,“ the notice said.