The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has asked the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to reverse their decision to close down schools for five weeks for the Ramadan fast.
The student body issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the state governors to reverse the decision or face nationwide protests.
The association conveyed its disappointment in the state governments in a statement by its National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi on Monday.
NANS argued that the closure of schools to observe the Ramadan fasting is an infringement on the right of every student to uninterrupted education.
Stressing that the policy is backward and threatens academic progress, NANS noted that if unchallenged, the move would set a bad precedent in the Nigerian education sector.
The PRO said, “The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS National Body) vehemently condemns the recent directive by the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to close schools during the holy month of Ramadan.
“This policy is not only unjust but also a blatant infringement on the fundamental rights of students to receive uninterrupted education.
“NANS stands firm in advocating for the right to education for all Nigerian students, regardless of their religious affiliations. Closing schools for an extended period during Ramadan undermines the academic progress of students, disrupts their learning, and unfairly targets non-Muslim students, subjecting them to undue discrimination.
“The Nigerian constitution, along with various international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory, guarantees the right to education for all citizens. The decision to close schools during Ramadan violates these principles and sets a dangerous precedent that prioritizes religious observances over the educational rights of students.
“NANS demands the immediate reversal of this policy and issues a 72-hour ultimatum to the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to take corrective action and reopen schools.
“Failure to comply will result in nationwide protests and legal actions to protect the rights of Nigerian students.
“We urge all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and civil society organisations, to join us in this fight to ensure that education remains a priority for all Nigerian students. We must work together to prevent any form of discrimination and uphold the principles of equality and justice.”
