Founder and Creative Director of ZaQi EnCLOTHE, Hajia Zaliatu Kasim, has dismissed the widely held misconception that Muslim women are oppressed by their husbands at home.
Speaking in an interview on Joy Prime’s morning show on April 1, 2025, she emphasised that Islam does not subject women to oppression but rather provides a framework for protection, dignity, and empowerment.
Addressing the topic “The Beauty of Modest Dressing – How to Maintain Style While Embracing Islamic Modesty,” Hajia Zaliatu explained that the notion of oppression stems from misinterpretation and ignorance about Islamic teachings.
According to Hajia Zaliatu, men in Islam are guardians and protectors of women, not figures of oppression. She described them as a beacon of hope who provide security, stability, and leadership within the family structure.
“It all depends on how you perceive it. In Islam, men are there as a shield, to protect and support women, not to suppress them. That is the role they play. People misinterpret this and make it look like Islam is oppressive, but once you acquire knowledge and understand the religion properly, you will see that it is not oppression but guidance,” she stated.
Drawing comparisons to Northern Nigeria, Hajia Zaliatu highlighted how societal roles have evolved over time. In some places, men dominate the marketplaces while women manage the home. However, she stressed that this is not due to force but cultural evolution, and Islam does not compel women to stay at home.
Hajia Zaliatu emphasized that the dos and don’ts of Islam are not arbitrary restrictions but divine guidelines meant to shape a righteous life. She clarified that these rules are not imposed to burden believers but rather serve as a moral compass for a meaningful and fulfilling life.
“Every religion has its own interpretations based on how it is taught, but Islam provides principles that guide us towards a righteous and dignified life. When you lack understanding, it may seem like oppression, but in reality, it is a divine structure for spiritual and personal growth,” she noted.
As a fashion entrepreneur, Hajia Zaliatu also addressed the misconceptions about modest dressing, particularly the wearing of the hijab. She noted that dressing modestly is not exclusive to Islam, as many Christian and Jewish women also embrace modest fashion as a sign of dignity and self-respect.
“Dressing to cover the body, especially with the hijab, is a form of modesty, and modesty is not only for Muslim women. Even among Christians and other religious groups, there are those who choose to dress in a modest way. It is about self-respect, identity, and faith,” she explained.
She further highlighted that modesty does not equate to lack of style and that women can remain elegant, stylish, and fashionable while adhering to Islamic principles.
“You can dress modestly and still appear very beautiful. Modest fashion is not about looking dull or unattractive—it is about carrying yourself with dignity while maintaining your faith,” she added.
Hajia Zaliatu also touched on dress codes for men in Islam, stating that modesty is not only expected of women but also of men. She pointed out that Muslim men are religiously restricted from wearing certain accessories, such as gold jewelry, as part of their adherence to Islamic teachings.
“The same way Muslim men are not allowed to wear some accessories, like gold, is the same way modest dressing applies to women. Islam gives guidelines that apply to both genders, ensuring balance and discipline in society,” she said.
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