The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has condemned the closure of public and private schools in some Northern states during Ramadan.
The organization expressed concerns that the closure would negatively impact senior secondary students preparing for examinations and junior students sitting for Junior Secondary Schools examination.
The CAN Chairman, Rev John Hayab, stated that the closure of schools can negatively impact senior secondary students who are preparing to sit for exams organized by the Joint Matriculation Examination Board. He also noted that some children under 14 may not be religiously mature enough to observe the fast.
Hayab emphasized that the decision to close schools may not be backed by Islamic teachings, but rather political expediency. He suggested cutting school hours to allow students and teachers to observe the fast instead of closing schools entirely.
The CAN leader noted that even in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, schools remain open during Ramadan. He urged the affected states to adopt a similar approach, matching education with spiritual practice.
The recent Multidimensional Poverty Index by the National Bureau for Statistics highlights the educational challenges in these states. Bauchi has 54% of children lacking access to education, followed by Kebbi at 45%, Katsina at 38%, and Kano at 35%.
The CAN has consulted with prominent Islamic scholars, who explained that the decisions of the governors could be driven by political expediency rather than Islamic teachings. The organization appealed to the governors to reconsider their decision and prioritize education.
The National President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, also condemned the school closures, describing the move as discriminatory and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students. He warned that the association might seek legal redress if the directive was not reversed.
Okoh emphasized that education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress. He noted that the closure of schools across these states disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students.
The CAN has called on the people to remain calm and law-abiding, challenging stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to address the matter amicably.
