Closure of Christian Schools in Nigeria During Ramadan by Muslim Authorities
Muslim authorities in Nigeria have issued orders to close Christian schools during the month of Ramadan.
According to a report by the Christian organization “Open Doors,” Muslim authorities in Nigerian states have issued orders to close Christian schools in the northern part of the country during Ramadan. This unprecedented action by Muslim authorities was implemented in the states of Kano, Katsina, Bauchi, and Kebbi, with all schools being closed during Ramadan regardless of the religious and sectarian orientation of students.
Legal experts from the Christian organization “Open Doors” condemned this measure and stated: “The right to education is a fundamental right that must be guaranteed regardless of a student’s religious background. This action is a clear violation of the fundamental right to education and the freedom of religious minorities. This practice can be dangerous and can pave the way for the violation of other fundamental rights of religious minorities.”
The head of the Katsina moral police also emphasized the enforcement of the closure of private schools, stating: “Non-compliance with this order will not be tolerable.”
“Samson Adimi,” spokesperson for the National Union of Nigerian Students, also responded to this action by accusing Nigerian authorities of prioritizing religious ceremonies over students’ right to education, calling it the establishment of a wrong precedent.
Reverend “Daniel Okoh,” president of the Christian Association of Nigeria, also responded to this action, saying: “This decision can be devastating for the lives of poor children who are struggling to continue their education and build a better future. Even Saudi Arabia does not close schools during Ramadan.”
The Conference of Catholic Bishops also reacted to this action, considering it a “violation of Nigeria’s secular constitution.”
