Current Volume 9
Abstract
This paper examines the persistent issues of Islamophobia and stereotypes surrounding the wearing of the hijab by Muslim women in Rivers State, Nigeria. Despite the hijab’s deeply rooted spiritual, cultural, and moral significance in Islam, Muslim women in Rivers State often encounter discrimination, verbal abuse, and institutional exclusion because of it. Drawing on interviews, legal cases, and relevant sociological literature, the study highlights the dual dimensions of the hijab. It is used as a symbol of empowerment and identity for Muslim women and as a trigger for prejudice and marginalization within secular and Christian-dominated spaces. The paper argues that misconceptions stem largely from ignorance, religious intolerance, and the misuse of the hijab by a minority, which has distorted perceptions among non-Muslims. The study also emphasizes the need for policy reforms within educational and institutional settings, alongside community education and interfaith dialogue, to foster understanding and protect the rights of Muslim women to express their faith freely.
Keywords
Hijab, Islamophobia, Stereotypes, Rivers State, Discrimination, Gender, Religious Freedom
Citations
IRE Journals:
Adeoye, Adeola Waheed, Prof Abdur Razaq O. Kilani, Dr. Suberu Ibrahim "Islamophobia and Stereotypes of Muslims in The Use of Hijab in Rivers State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 11 2026 Page 1452-1456
IEEE:
Adeoye, Adeola Waheed, Prof Abdur Razaq O. Kilani, Dr. Suberu Ibrahim
"Islamophobia and Stereotypes of Muslims in The Use of Hijab in Rivers State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(11)
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