The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has strongly criticised the decision of Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi State governors to close schools during the Holy month of Ramadan, calling it a move that jeopardises the future of millions of children.
In a statement today by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, the party expressed its “profound disappointment and concern” over what it described as an unnecessary disruption to the academic calendar, reports The Nation.
“This decision disrupts the educational programme of our children and undermines their right to quality education,” the statement reads.
The PRP particularly questioned why governors with advanced degrees, including Katsina governor, Dikko Radda, who holds a PhD in Agriculture and Rural Sociology, and Kebbi State governor, Nasir Idris, who has a PhD in Education, would endorse such a policy.
“How can a state led by such a learned individual decide that the best way to move forward is to lock the doors of learning during a time of fasting?” the party asked, calling the move a contradiction that raises concerns about their commitment to progress.
The party also pointed out that these same leaders attended school without disruption during Ramadan in their youth.
“Historically, during their own time in secondary school, these leaders experienced uninterrupted learning during Ramadan,” the PRP noted, arguing that the decision to shut down schools is both inconsistent and damaging.
According to the PRP, States like Bauchi, Kano, Katsina and Kebbi already suffer from high rates of out-of-school children, averaging around 44%, well above the national average.
The party warned that further school closures would worsen the situation, especially given the region’s poor performance in national examinations.
“Closing schools during Ramadan only deepens this crisis and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students,” the statement said.
While acknowledging the significance of Ramadan, the PRP emphasised that education and spirituality can coexist, citing examples from Islamic nations.
“Many Islamic nations, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, manage to balance educational needs with religious observance during this holy month by adapting school schedules rather than closing them entirely,” the party argued.
The PRP called on the governors to reconsider their decision and engage with stakeholders to find a more balanced approach.
“They must engage constructively with parents, educators, and civil society organizations to reassess their decision and explore options that accommodate the needs of Muslim students while ensuring that education continues,” the statement urged.
In a final appeal, the party demanded an immediate reversal of the school closures and a renewed commitment to policies that protect education.
“It is time for the governors to stop playing politics with the futures of our children and instead commit to creating pathways for success through uninterrupted education,” the statement said.
