…threatens legal action
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong disapproval of the recent directives by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States to shut down all schools; public and private, for up to five weeks during the Ramadan fasting period.
It was gathered that the closures, set to take effect from late February to early April 2025, have erupted concerns over equity, educational continuity, and the larger implications for Christian students across the affected states.
In a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the body acknowledged the importance of religious observances but warned that the prolonged closure of schools would significantly disrupt academic progress, particularly in states already grappling with high rates of out-of-school children.
“Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress. The closure of schools for such an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students,” the statement read.
Citing recent data, CAN noted that these states; Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi, already suffer from some of the highest out-of-school rates in the country, averaging 44%. The association warned that a five-week break could further exacerbate this crisis, setting back efforts to improve literacy and access to quality education.
CAN also criticized the decision-making process leading to these directives, stating that Christian leaders in the affected states were not adequately consulted, despite claims of stakeholder engagement.
The association emphasized the need for transparent, inclusive dialogue before implementing policies that affect both Muslim and Christian communities noting that the absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in a pluralistic society like Nigeria.
The religious body further pointed out that even in countries where Islam is central, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, schools remain open during Ramadan, with adjusted schedules to accommodate fasting students.
“If these Islamic heartlands can maintain this balance, Nigeria’s northern states should strive for similar pragmatism. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent,” the statement added.
CAN urged the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi—Bala Mohammed, Dikko Umar Radda, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Nasir Idris, to reconsider their decisions and open dialogue with key stakeholders, including religious bodies, school owners, parents, and civil society groups stressing that fairness and national cohesion must guide policymaking.
While calling for calm, CAN warned that it would not hesitate to take legal action if these directives remain unchanged.
“Should these rights face further jeopardy or dialogue fail to deliver justice, CAN is prepared to seek legal recourse. We will pursue restraining orders through the courts to safeguard the constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience,” the statement declared.
CAN however, called on all Nigerians, Muslims, Christians, and other faiths to work together in ensuring a fair and just society where education is prioritized and religious harmony is upheld.
“Let us unite as Nigerians to forge a society where faith and progress harmonize, where no child’s education is compromised, and where every community is valued,” the statement urged.
