The Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAHPT), Ibadan, has dismissed claims that it discriminates against Muslim students.
Provost of the college, Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, made this clarification in a statement issued to journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday night.
The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Oyo State Area Unit, had earlier alleged in a statement signed by Mallam Hussayn Adepoju (Amir) and Mallam AbdulRahman Elegbede (PRO) that the provost threatened to expel female Muslim students who wear the veil (Niqob).
However, Dr. Owosibo refuted the allegation, emphasizing that the institution upholds religious harmony and tolerance.
He affirmed that no student has been discriminated against or prevented from attending classes due to their religious beliefs.
He further stated that the Chief Imam of the IAR&T community and the President of the IAR&T Muslim community could confirm the college’s commitment to religious coexistence.
He also explained that the past leadership of MSSN of Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan, can also be contacted to testify to harmonious coexistence in the school.
He maintained that the institution is concerned about the safety of the students when they go for their hands on practical.
The provost said that the students were advised to go to their practicals with prescribed apparel for safety, which include Laboratory coat and Broiler suit as the case may be.
He added that it is not in his habit to discriminate against anyone based on religious beliefs.
He said that he is concerned about the security and safety of the students, saying that he has better relationship with the Imam, Sheikh Elesinmeta.
“The above matter is a huge misconception. We are very concerned about the safety of our students when they go for their hands on practical.
“They were advised to go to their practicals with prescribed apparel for safety, which include Laboratory coat and Broiler suit as the case may be.
“No student has ever been sent out of the classroom or disenfranchised for any reason. Chief Imam of the IAR&T community and President of the IAR&T Muslim community can be contacted to buttress harmonious relationships.
“In fact, the past leadership of MSSN of Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology,Ibadan, can also be contacted to testify to harmonious coexistence.
“In a nutshell, there is no plan for any form of segregation or harassment as the case may be. We assure the general public that it is our duty as the college management to ensure peace and harmony, and that is what we will do.
“I am concerned about the security and safety of the students. In fact, I have better relationship with our imam, Sheikh Elesinmeta than some Muslim officers in the school”.
