Shariah Council Backs Schools Closure In Northern States For Ramadan
The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has backed the decision of some northern state governments to shut down primary and secondary schools during Ramadan, citing concerns over extreme heat and student welfare.
Urging states like Zamfara, Sokoto, and Jigawa to follow suit, the council dismissed objections from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and certain NGOs, stressing that school schedules fall under the jurisdiction of state governments.
In a statement, SCSN’s Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, assured that academic activities would not be disrupted as lost school days would be recovered by adjusting the long vacation.
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“This measure ensures students remain engaged academically while also considering their well-being. It was thoroughly assessed by the Ministries of Education and widely accepted by parents,” the statement noted.
The council condemned threats of legal action or strikes over the closure, describing them as unnecessary and an affront to state authorities.
“It is surprising that CAN, which remained silent during ASUU strikes that crippled academic sessions, is now resisting a structured adjustment of just 25 school days,” it stated.
Citing the Education Law of 1964, SCSN reiterated that governors hold the authority to set school holidays, with Kogi State being an exception.
It further asserted that CAN has no role in shaping education policies in northern states and that state governments are not obliged to seek external approval for their decisions.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
