The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has condemned the closure of public and private schools in several Northern states during Ramadan. This response follows a directive to close schools in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states for five weeks during the month of Ramadan.
In a statement issued in Kaduna, Northern CAN Chairman Rev. John Hayab expressed concerns about the negative impact of these closures on senior secondary students preparing for examinations, as well as junior students sitting for the Junior Secondary School exams. He highlighted the challenges faced by children in Northern states, particularly due to rising insecurities that have already disrupted their education.
Hayab noted that many children under the age of 14 may not be religiously mature enough to observe the fast, raising further concerns about the rationale behind the closures. He pointed out that educational access remains a significant issue, with recent statistics revealing high rates of children lacking education in states like Bauchi, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kano.
The CAN leader emphasized that other countries with predominantly Muslim populations, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, keep schools open during Ramadan, advocating for a similar approach in Northern Nigeria. He suggested that instead of total school closures, states should consider reducing school hours to accommodate fasting.
Hayab criticized the decision to close schools as potentially politically motivated rather than based on Islamic teachings. He urged Northern governors to reconsider their stance and prioritize education, appealing for a more balanced approach that allows students to observe Ramadan without sacrificing their education.
In conclusion, CAN called on the governors to stop presenting the Northern region in a negative light and to work towards solutions that support both education and spiritual practices. The organization urged the public to remain calm and engage in peaceful discussions to address the matter.
