The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to reconsider their decision to close schools for five weeks during Ramadan, warning that failure to do so could lead to legal action.
READ ALSO: CAN tasks Muslims on peace, tolerance
CAN President Daniel Okoh issued a statement on Sunday in Abuja condemning the policy as discriminatory and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students. He criticized the decision for lacking transparency and failing to include key stakeholders, such as Christian leaders, educators, and parents.
“Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress,” Okoh stated, emphasizing that policies affecting diverse populations must be based on inclusive dialogue. He noted that the affected states already account for 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children, and the school closures could further deepen the education crisis.
CAN also highlighted that predominantly Islamic nations such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates do not shut down schools completely during Ramadan but instead adjust schedules to accommodate fasting students. Okoh stressed the need for a similar approach in Nigeria, calling for constructive dialogue between government officials, religious leaders, and school administrators.
The association urged Governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dikko Umar Radda (Katsina), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), and Nasir Idris (Kebbi) to address the concerns through consultation with stakeholders. Okoh warned that CAN would not hesitate to pursue legal measures if the policy remained unchanged.
“We must ensure that the education of our children and the unity of our states are not jeopardized. If these rights continue to be threatened, CAN is prepared to take legal action,” he added.
CAN called for calm among residents of the affected states, urging unity and cooperation to safeguard children’s education while promoting interfaith harmony. The statement concluded with a call for a society where faith and progress coexist without compromising fundamental rights.
