The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) strongly opposes the decision by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States to shut down school(s) for the Ramadan fasting period. The body warns that it may pursue legal action if the directive is not reconsidered.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh condemned the decision, describing it as a serious threat to educational continuity, equity, and national unity.
The association argued that education is a fundamental right and that prolonged school closures would disrupt academic activities, further worsening the already critical issue of out-of-school children in the affected states.
“Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi already have alarming rates of out-of-school children, far exceeding the national average. Closing schools for an extended period will only deepen this crisis and undermine efforts to provide quality education for all,” CAN stated.
The Christian body also criticizes the lack of consultation before implementing the directive, noting that CAN representatives in the affected states were not engaged in discussions.
“Policies impacting diverse populations must be the result of inclusive dialogue. Unfortunately, that has not happened in this case, and such unilateral decisions erode trust and unity in our pluralistic society,” the statement read.
CAN further pointed out that even Islamic-majority countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE do not close schools entirely for Ramadan but instead implement adjusted schedules.
“If these nations can maintain a balance between religious observance and education, Nigeria’s northern states should follow suit. A five-week closure is excessive and without global precedent,” the association argued.
The group called on the governors of the affected states to open discussions with religious leaders, school administrators, parents, and civil society to review the decision.
CAN warns that if the school closures persist, it is prepared to take legal action.
“We are ready to seek restraining orders through the courts to protect the constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience,” Archbishop Okoh stated.
Conclusion
While urging residents to remain peaceful, CAN reaffirmed its commitment to religious harmony but insisted that students who do not observe Ramadan should not have their education disrupted.
“Let us build a nation where faith and progress coexist, where no child’s education is sacrificed, and where all communities feel valued. We urge the governors to reconsider these policies in the spirit of fairness and national unity,” the statement concluded.
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