Hijab: Tension as hoodlums attack churches, schools in Ilorin

A report by The Nation indicates that the crisis over hijab (veil) wearing in Christian grant-aided mission schools took a violent turn on Monday, March 22, 2021, in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital.

Reports state that scores of hoodlums allegedly vandalised churches, shops and schools in Sabo-Oke, Muritala Mohammed way as well as other areas of the metropolis.

The report said that other places affected include Post Office, Surulere and Maraba where churches and Christian schools are located.

Nigerian Tribune also reported that it took combined efforts of officers and men of the Kwara state police command, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Army to prevent the break down of law and order.

According to the report, the tense situation sent fears and apprehension down the spines of residents of the areas.

The hoodlums allegedly brandished machetes, cutlasses, bottles and other dangerous weapons, while marching through some roads in the metropolis.

It was also gathered some of them wore masks apparently to cover their identity.

Though the gate of the Cherubim and Seraphim College Sabo Oke Ilorin was securely locked, the hoodlums hauled stones and other dangerous missiles into the premises even with the presence of military operatives stationed at the entrance gate of the school.

The violence also spread to St. Barnabas LGEA primary school, Murtala Muhammad way, Ilorin and some churches in the area.

Ajayi Okasanmi, the Kwara state police command spokesperson, said the prompt intervention of men of the command nipped the situation in the bud.

He said that normalcy had since returned to schools and business communities in the metropolis.