NANS threatens mass protests over ‘religious bias’ in school closures

DDM News

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened to protest against school closures in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the student body has given the governors a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision or face nationwide demonstrations.

NANS described the closure as a violation of students’ rights to uninterrupted education.

The association emphasized that education should not be sacrificed for religious observances.

It warned that the decision would negatively affect academic progress, especially for non-Muslim students.

NANS National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi, issued a statement condemning the policy.

He described the school closures as unjust and discriminatory against students of other religious backgrounds.

Adeyemi stressed that the Nigerian constitution guarantees the right to education for all citizens.

He noted that international treaties Nigeria has signed also uphold this fundamental right.

He argued that prioritizing religious observances over education sets a dangerous precedent.

NANS vowed to challenge the decision legally if necessary.

The student body urged state governments to reconsider their stance immediately.

Reactions from stakeholders

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) also condemned the decision.

CAN President, Daniel Okoh, called the move discriminatory against non-Muslim students.

He warned that the policy could worsen Nigeria’s educational crisis.

Okoh noted that the affected states already account for 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children.

He stressed that education should not be disrupted for religious reasons.

CAN threatened legal action if the schools remained closed.

Educators and civil society organizations have also criticized the decision.

They argued that prolonged closures would harm students’ academic performance.

Some parents expressed concerns over their children’s education.

They feared that another extended break could make students fall behind.

A university lecturer suggested alternative measures like adjusting school hours.

He emphasized that shutting schools for five weeks was unnecessary.

A civil society leader called for a dialogue between the government and stakeholders.

He urged authorities to consider students’ academic future before making such policies.

NANS’ ultimatum and protest plans

NANS insisted that schools must reopen immediately to prevent mass protests.

Adeyemi reaffirmed the association’s readiness to mobilize students nationwide.

He declared that failure to comply would trigger large-scale demonstrations.

He called on all stakeholders to support the fight for students’ rights.

NANS urged the Federal Government to intervene in the matter.

Adeyemi stressed that allowing states to close schools for Ramadan could set a negative precedent.

He emphasized the need to prioritize education over religious considerations.

The student body vowed to challenge any policy that discriminates against any group.

NANS encouraged affected students to prepare for peaceful protests if necessary.

Adeyemi assured students that their rights would be protected.

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