By: Theo James
Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has expressed deep concern over the declaration by some governors in Northern Nigeria to close schools during Ramadan period.
CBCN in a press statement signed by Lucus Iwejuru Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri, President and Most Rev Donatus A. Ogun OSA, Bishop of Uromi, Secretary said that the decision would exacerbate the out of school syndrome in the country.
The statement reads, “We 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 affect not only Muslim students but also Christian students and Christian owned schools raises serious question about the secular nature of our country and the rights of all citizens.
“As stated in Section 10 of Nigeria constitution, “The government of federation or of State shall not adopt any religion as State religion.” This provision underscores the secular nature of our country and the rights of all citizens.
“The Nigeria state is secular and this secularity is not a mere declaration, it is a fundamental principle that must guide all aspects of our national life.
“Furthermore, the Universal declaration of Human Rights(Article 26) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Culture(Article 13) emphasize the right to education as fundamental human right.
“The closure of schools for an extended period undermine these rights and jeopardizes the education and future of millions of Nigerian children. We are particularly concern about the impact of this decision on the already alarming rate of out-of- school children in Northern Nigeria.
“According to UNESCO, Nigeria has the highest number of out of school children in the world, with over ten million children not attending school. This decision will only exacerbate this crisis and undermine efforts to improve education outcome in the region.
“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, we also call on the federal government to intervene and ensure that the rights of all Nigerians regardless of their faith or background are protected.
“We pray that our leaders will prioritize the education and wellbeing of all Nigerian children regardless of their faith or background and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.”
