The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has given the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi states a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision to close schools for 5 weeks during the Ramadan period.
NANS made this known following concerns raised about the negative impact on students’ right to continuous education.
Their National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi said the policy is a clear infringement on the educational rights of all students.
He said the extended school closures will hinder academic progress and discriminate against non-Muslim students.
He warned that if this policy is allowed to continue unchallenged, it will set a bad precedent in the Nigerian education system.
In his statement, Adeyemi condemned the directive as unjust and against the provision of the Nigerian constitution and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
He said every student deserves uninterrupted learning, regardless of his religion.
NANS has threatened nationwide protests and legal action if the policy is not rescinded.
Adeyemi called on parents, educators and civil society groups to join the movement to defend the fundamental right to education.
The controversy comes at a time when education in Nigeria is already in crisis.
Recent studies show that in some areas, up to 44% of children are out of school.
This figure shows how dire the situation is and we must protect educational access for all.
Critics say closing schools during Ramadan will worsen existing educational inequalities and further marginalise non-Muslim students.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has also threatened to take legal action against the governors.
CAN’s President, Daniel Okoh described the decision as discriminatory and counterproductive to the education of students in the affected states.
Closing schools during the holy month raises questions about the balance between religious observance and educational rights.
It also shows the tension in a society that is trying to accommodate different cultures and religions while upholding the constitution.
The debate is a broader one about academic integrity and equality in Nigeria’s education policies.