The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a stern ultimatum to the state governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi, demanding that they reverse their decision to shut down schools for a five-week period during Ramadan.
CAN claims that the policy discriminates against non-Muslim students and violates their rights, warning that legal action will follow if the closure directives are not withdrawn.
In a statement released on Sunday from Abuja, CAN President Daniel Okoh condemned the extended school closures, emphasizing that the policy could exacerbate the already severe educational challenges in the region—home to 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children. He stressed the critical importance of education and the disruption that a prolonged break would cause.
“Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress,” Okoh stated.
“The closure of schools across these states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students.”
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Okoh also criticized the decision for its lack of transparency, noting that the policy was implemented without proper consultations with key stakeholders such as Christian leaders, educators, and parents.
“Policies impacting diverse populations—Muslims, Christians, and others—demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors.
“The absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in our pluralistic society,” Okoh remarked.
Drawing comparisons with predominantly Islamic nations, Okoh argued that Nigeria should consider more balanced approaches. He pointed to practices in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where educational institutions adjust their schedules during Ramadan rather than closing down entirely.
“Globally, nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—where Islam is central and Ramadan deeply revered—do not shut down schools for the entire fasting period.
“Instead, they adapt schedules, shortening hours or offering flexibility, to balance education with religious practice. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent,” Okoh said.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to interfaith harmony while making it clear that it would not allow constitutional rights to be compromised. The association called on Governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dikko Umar Radda (Katsina), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), and Nasir Idris (Kebbi) to engage with all relevant stakeholders in a constructive dialogue to address the issue.
“Transparency is essential, and we expect these governments to act in good faith by promptly engaging all parties.
“The education of our children and the unity of our states are at stake. Should these rights face further jeopardy or dialogue fail to deliver justice, CAN is prepared to seek legal recourse,” Okoh warned.
CAN concluded its statement with an appeal for calm among residents in the affected states, urging unity and cooperation to ensure that no child’s education is compromised.
“Let us unite as Nigerians to forge a society where faith and progress harmonize, where no child’s education is compromised, and where every community is valued,” the statement read.
Source: Ripples