UNILORIN student writes book on Islamic law
By Mustafa Abubakar
A final-year Law student of the University of Ilorin, Miss Maryam Adeleye, has written a book on menstruation (ḥayḍ), offering simplified and practical guidance on Islamic rulings,which address widespread confusion among Muslim women.
Miss Adeleye, who is studying Common and Islamic Law, disclosed this last Tuesday (April 21,2026) while speaking with UNILORIN Bulletin.
She explained that the work, written in Arabic, was inspired by both personal experiences and recurring societal concerns about menstrual purity and religious obligations.
Miss Adeleye explained that while growing up, she had several questions about her menstrual cycle, particularly on how to determine purity and distinguish between different types of blood issues, which she frequently discussed with her father.
According to her, she later discovered that many other women and young girls face similar uncertainties, often seeking clarification without access to clear and reliable sources.
Miss Adeleye added that the book represents a step towards her long-term goal of becoming an Islamic scholar focused on women-related issues.
She said that the choice of language reflects her grounding in classical Islamic scholarship and ensures fidelity to original sources. She, however, disclosed plans to translate the work into English and local languages to broaden its readership.
The book examines key themes in Islamic jurisprudence, including identifying the end of menstruation, confirming purity, distinguishing menstrual from non-menstrual blood, and understanding how these affect acts of worship such as prayer and fasting.
Miss Adeleye emphasised that the aim is to present these rulings in a structured, clear, and relatable manner for everyday application.
She noted that while classical Islamic texts extensively address menstruation, many are not easily accessible to non-specialists, thereby creating a gap, which her work seeks to fill. “There is a real need for grounded and understandable knowledge in this area,” she said.
Drawing on her legal training, Miss Adeleye explained that her approach combines analytical clarity with religious sensitivity, allowing her to present Islamic rulings logically while remaining faithful to established jurisprudence.
She added that the work engages recognised schools of thought while maintaining a balanced and accessible perspective.
Miss Adeleye stressed that education remains essential in correcting misconceptions and empowering women with accurate knowledge.
Despite the sensitivity of the topic, she said her commitment to providing beneficial knowledge helped her navigate societal hesitation and the challenges encountered during the writing process.
Miss Adeleye called on media practitioners to approach issues like menstruation with responsibility, emphasising accuracy, cultural awareness, and educational value over sensationalism.
She expressed optimism that the book would contribute to more informed public discourse on women’s issues within Islamic contexts and serve as a reliable reference for students and scholars alike.
Beyond the publication, the young author revealed plans to expand the initiative into advocacy, seminars, and broader engagements aimed at promoting awareness and education on women-related issues in Islam.
She advised women facing stigma to seek knowledge and not allow societal perceptions to prevent them from understanding their religious rights and responsibilities.
Miss Adeleye also encouraged young Muslim women and aspiring scholars to pursue knowledge with sincerity and remain committed to contributing meaningfully to society.
She expressed hope that the book would leave a lasting legacy as a source of beneficial knowledge and a stepping stone for deeper engagement with women’s issues in Islamic scholarship.
