By Paschal Norbert
ABUJA, MARCH 5, 2025 (CISA) – A controversial decision by a section of governors in Northern Nigeria to close schools for five weeks during Ramadan has sparked outrage, with the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) condemning the move as a violation of constitutional rights and a threat to education. The bishops argue that the closures, affecting both Muslim and Christian students, challenge the secular nature of the country and further widen Nigeria’s already deep religious divide.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is broadly divided along religious lines, with the predominantly Muslim North and the largely Christian South often clashing over issues of governance, religious freedom, and social policies. This latest directive has reignited concerns over the marginalization of minority religious communities in the North and the impact of religious policies on education.
The states affected by the controversial ban include Katsina, led by Governor Dikko Umar Radda; Bauchi, led by Governor Bala Mohammed; and Kebbi, led by Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris.
In a strongly worded statement dated Mach 3, the CBCN denounced the school closures, warning that they undermine Nigeria’s constitutional secularism and violate the rights of Christian students and faith-based schools.
“The Government of the Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion,” the bishops reminded, quoting Section 10 of the Nigerian Constitution. They also cited international human rights laws, emphasizing that education is a fundamental right that should not be sacrificed for religious observances.
The bishops further expressed alarm over the already dire situation of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, which, according to UNESCO, has the highest number in the world, exceeding 10 million. They warned that the decision to halt education for five weeks will only worsen the crisis, undermining efforts to improve literacy and access to learning.
“We urge the governors of the affected states to reconsider this decision and explore alternative arrangements that respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens,” the bishops appealed, calling on the Federal Government to intervene.
As tensions mount, the controversy highlights the delicate balance Nigeria must maintain between religious freedom and governance. With education already facing severe challenges, critics argue that shutting down schools for an extended period sets a dangerous precedent, potentially deepening religious divides and hampering the future of millions of Nigerian children.
