Most significantly, the Babatunde Raji Fashola administration’s policy of discriminating against school girls in hijab (something that is given in other parts of the same “secular” country) has interfered with the basic and religious rights of the claimants (and others in their shoes) to practice their faith. It is the simple fact that this administration failed an affirmative duty to accommodate, among other things, the religious needs of those put under its care that warrants a Federal human/religious rights legislation that will impose heavy penalties on those bent on seeing that the secular and sacred cannot coexist.

Today’s ruling should be seen for what it is: a resounding victory for those bent on trashing the Constitution which guarantees rights for all Nigerians to freely practice their faith.

By dismissing this case, Justice Grace Onyeabo has given the clearest indication yet as to who she listened to during many months of arguments in her court. This is a missed opportunity for the Lagos High Court, plain and simple, to defend our constitution and speak powerfully and courageously in defense of freedom of expression of religion and basic rights. This ruling will only strengthen the Muslim community’s commitment and resolve to further pursue this case all the more vigorously.