Christian Schools Shut Down in Northern Nigeria for Ramadan Observance

Christian Schools in Northern Nigeria Closed for Ramadan by Government Order

In a controversial decision, governors in northern Nigeria have mandated the closure of all schools, including Christian institutions, during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This directive affects the states of Kano, Katsina, Bauchi, and Kebbi, where religious leaders and educators have expressed significant concern.

Groups opposing the decision include Christian leaders, teachers’ unions, and student organizations, all of whom have spoken out against the blanket closure. In Katsina, the morality police chief emphasized that both public and private schools must adhere to the order, warning that any form of defiance would be unacceptable.

An anonymous legal expert from the anti-persecution group Open Doors criticized the move, stating, “Right to education is a fundamental right that must be guaranteed regardless of student’s religious background. This action violates the fundamental right to education and religious freedom of religious minorities.”

Samson Adeyemi, representing the National Association of Nigerian Students, also voiced his disapproval, accusing the government of establishing a “dangerous precedent” by placing religious practices above educational rights.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference highlighted potential conflicts with the nation’s secular constitution, which prohibits any state from endorsing an official religion. The Most Rev Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), warned that this decision could further disadvantage children from poorer backgrounds who already face educational barriers.

He remarked on the irony of the situation, noting that even Saudi Arabia manages to keep schools operational during Ramadan, albeit with modified schedules. The tension in Nigeria’s north is exacerbated by the presence of Islamic extremist groups, such as Boko Haram, infamous for their violent campaign against Western education.