The Nigerian Law School has dismissed allegations that female Muslim candidates wearing hijab were harassed, intimidated or excluded from the Bar Final Examinations held on October 31, 2026.
The institution described the allegations as false, insisting that it had no policy or institutional practice of religious discrimination.
In an official statement issued on November 4, 2026, the Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration, Aderonke O. Osho, said the school remained committed to protecting the constitutional rights, religious freedoms and dignity of all candidates, irrespective of their faith.
She explained that the Bar Final Examinations were conducted under established regulations designed to ensure proper identification, examination security and academic integrity.
The statement disclosed that a female student wearing hijab was apprehended during the Bar Part I examinations on October 29, 2026, after allegedly concealing an earpiece and strapping a mobile phone to her thigh.
According to the school, the incident is currently under investigation in line with its examination rules and relevant regulations.
It added that the apprehension of the student for alleged examination misconduct reinforced the need for strict security measures, which it maintained were being implemented fairly and without discrimination.
The Nigerian Law School reaffirmed its commitment to the constitutional protections guaranteed under Sections 38 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, covering religious freedom and protection against discrimination.
The institution urged the public and stakeholders to exercise restraint, avoid premature conclusions and allow the appropriate institutional processes to establish the facts.
It reiterated its commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, professionalism and the uninterrupted discharge of its statutory responsibilities.
