The Catholic Bishops in Nigeria protested the recent decisions by some governors in northern Nigeria to shut down academic activities in all schools in their respective states for five weeks during the Ramadan period.
Kano, Kebi and Bauchi State governments have shut down schools due to the Ramadan fast.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), in as statement signed by its President, Most Rev. Lucius IwejuruUgorji, and Secretary, Most Rev. Donatus A. Ogun, urged the federal government to intervene and ensure that the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith or background, were protected.
They called o the governors of the affected states to reconsider the decision and explore alternative arrangements that respected the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
The bishops observed that the closure of schools for an extended period violated the constitution of the country and would jeopardise the education and future of millions of Nigerian children.
The statement reads in part:
“We, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), express deep concern over the recent declaration by some governors in northern Nigeria to close schools for five weeks during the Ramadan period.
This decision, which affects not only Muslim students but also Christian students and Christian-owned schools, raises serious questions about the secular nature of our country and the rights of all citizens.”
