Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore criticizes northern Nigerian leaders for closing schools during Ramadan while sending their children to elite schools abroad. He argues that this decision marginalizes impoverished children and undermines their education. Critics, including Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, oppose these closures, citing the need for educational continuity even during religious observances. The debate raises significant issues regarding equality and governance in a secular nation.
In response to recent decisions by the northern Nigerian states of Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano to close schools for Ramadan, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has publicly condemned this action. He asserts that the leaders who endorsed these closures do not bear the consequences of their decisions, as their children are enrolled in elite private schools or institutions abroad. As a result, the education of impoverished children is jeopardized while these leaders remain unaffected.
Sowore characterized the leaders’ decision as “irresponsible and wicked,” emphasizing that the privileged elite can afford to send their children to high-quality educational institutions while the less fortunate are denied basic education. His criticism aligns with the condemnation from Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, who highlighted that other Muslim-majority nations, such as Saudi Arabia, keep schools operational during Ramadan. She stated, “nowhere is it stated that schools must be closed for fasting.”
The National Bureau of Statistics indicates that the affected states have significant numbers of out-of-school children, with Bauchi leading at 54%. Sowore further criticized the governors for their decision, labeling it as “ignorant” and “idiotic,” questioning the rationale behind allowing religious considerations to disrupt education in a secular state. He compared Nigeria’s situation to that of Saudi Arabia, where schools remain open during religious observances.
Sowore promised to enact policies that would prevent religious impositions on governance if he were to become President, stating, “I can’t be President and you come and close down schools because of fasting.” Critics, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), have deemed the school closures discriminatory and detrimental to the educational prospects of northern children. Despite the backlash, the Katsina State government reaffirmed its stance, extending the school shutdown to private institutions and warning of consequences for non-compliance.
In conclusion, the closure of schools in northern Nigeria for Ramadan has sparked significant controversy, with criticisms directed toward political leaders who allegedly prioritize their children’s education over the needs of the economically disadvantaged. This situation raises concerns about equity in educational access, particularly in regions with alarming rates of illiteracy. The ongoing discussions surrounding this issue highlight the need for a balance between religious observance and educational rights in a secular state.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
