The Christian Association of Nigeria has condemned the closure of all schools in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi during Ramadan.
In a statement released yesterday, CAN president Daniel Okoh said keeping schools shut for up to five weeks is an infringement on students’ rights.
He said this prolonged closure disrupts academic progress and continuity.
Okoh pointed out that in predominantly Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia and UAE, schools are open during Ramadan with adjusted schedules to accommodate fasting.
He urged state governments to dialogue with religious leaders, school owners, parents and civil society organisations to come up with a more inclusive approach.
CAN warned that if meaningful dialogue does not secure the constitutional rights of students and families, the organisation will go to court.
The statement said “while we respect the nation’s religious diversity and the importance of faith, the current policy raises serious questions of equity and citizenship for all.
“It’s alarming that these states have high out-of-school children already with figure of 44% average which is above the national average.”
This figure from recent data shows an educational crisis that will worsen with prolonged school closures.
Okoh faulted the lack of broad consultation before the directive was issued and also CAN leadership in the states were not involved.
He said policies affecting diverse communities – Muslims, Christians and others – requires transparent and inclusive discussions to maintain trust and unity in a pluralistic society.
Globally countries that have deep reverence for Ramadan show that a balanced approach is possible without shutting down schools completely.
For example Saudi Arabia and UAE adjust school hours to harmonise education with religious observance, it’s a practical example Nigeria’s northern states can follow.
CAN asked residents of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi to remain calm and peaceful during this period.
The organisation also said the rights of students and families that do not observe Ramadan should not be forgotten and any policy that threatens these rights sends a wrong signal for equitable governance.
CAN has written to Governors Bala Mohammed, Dikko Umar Radda, Abba Kabir Yusuf and Nasir Idris to open channels of dialogue with key stakeholders. They are asked to review the current directive and find solutions that captures all voices in the community.