In a groundbreaking ruling, a Federal High Court in Abuja has overturned the ban on female members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from wearing skirts. The court deemed the policy unconstitutional and discriminatory, as it violated the corps members’ rights to freedom of religion and human dignity.
The case was brought before the court by two former corps members who were denied their discharge certificates for refusing to wear trousers during their service year. The court awarded damages against the NYSC for the violation of the plaintiffs’ rights.
One of the former corps members, Ayuba Vivian, cited religious convictions for her refusal to wear trousers and opted to wear a skirt instead. The NYSC argued that corps members must comply with the program’s rules and regulations, including wearing a standardised uniform for discipline and uniformity.
However, the court ruled that the enforcement of a trousers-only policy for female corps members goes against fundamental human rights and cannot override constitutionally guaranteed religious freedoms. This decision marks a significant victory for the rights of female corps members to express their religious beliefs through their choice of attire.
The ruling sets a precedent for inclusivity and respect for diversity within the NYSC, empowering female corps members to adhere to their religious beliefs while fulfilling their mandatory service. It also signals a shift towards more progressive and inclusive policies within institutions like the NYSC.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.