By Isa Isawade
An organisation representing the interests of Muslims, the Muslim Initiative on Rights and Justice (MIRAJ), has sent a petition to Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, calling for an immediate arrest, interrogation and prosecution of actress Nancy Isime and her fellow actors over what it regards as an offensive portrayal of the religion of Islam.
The Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) said a film recently produced by the actress where hijab, which is a symbol of dignity and morality of women in Islam, is portrayed as a tool of indecency and terrorism, is injurious to Muslims and capable breaching the peace of the country.
According to the petition signed by the body’s leader, Amir Adeniyi Adams, the organisation takes solace in the commandment of Allah in pursuing its main objective “which is to address and redress any injustice, be it against Islam or its adherents or humanity in general.
It quoted Qur’anic verses as follows: “Let there arise out of you, a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoin what is right and forbidden what is wrong, they are the ones who attain felicity” (Q3 Vs 104).
“And why should ye not fight in the cause of Allah and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed) – men, women and children who cry “our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors and raise for us from the one who will protect; and raise for us the one who will help” (Q4 vs 75).”
According to the letter, MIRAJ which is a Human Rights organization cannot fold its arms while the religion and its law-abiding adherents are needlessly attacked.
“A Nigerian Nollywood actress Nancy Isime has unveiled a movie poster that features women wearing hijab and face veils holding guns in a bank robbery scene.
“The poster, which appears to promote her upcoming film, has been widely perceived as insensitive and disrespectful of Muslim women.
“The poster and film, perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce harmful misconceptions about Islam.
“The depiction of Muslim women engaging in criminal activity while wearing our religious clothing is offensive and disrespectful of our faith.
“The niqab/hijab is not an armed robbery attire! The niqab/hijab is not an attire for concealing identity.
“If She needed to conceal their identity for a perfect robbery role, they could have used a nose mask or wear a mask. Why wear Islamic attire?
“Niqab/Hijab is not a costume, neither is it a joke,” the petition read.
The organisation said the poster has caused significant injury to the Muslim communities, especially women using the hijab and face veil as prescribed by Islam.
