The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a stern warning to the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states, demanding an immediate reversal of their directives to close schools for five weeks during Ramadan. CAN President, Daniel Okoh, strongly criticized the policy, highlighting its potential to exacerbate the existing educational crisis in the affected states.
He noted that these states already account for 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children, and such a prolonged closure would further disadvantage them.CAN described the move as discriminatory and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students, warning that it would pursue legal action if the directive is not rescinded. The association also expressed concerns that the decision lacked transparency and failed to involve consultations with stakeholders, including Christian leaders, educators, and parents.
“Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress. The closure of schools across these states, from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period disrupts academic schedule and threatens educational advancement of millions of students,” Okoh stated.“Policies impacting diverse populations—Muslims, Christians, and others—demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors.
Source : https://guardian.ng/
