Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore condemns northern Nigerian leaders for closing schools during Ramadan while sending their children to elite institutions. He argues this decision undermines education for economically disadvantaged children and reflects a deeper issue of hypocrisy among leaders. The school closures are criticized by education advocates and government officials who argue they exacerbate existing educational inequalities, particularly in northern states with high illiteracy rates.
In a recent statement, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has expressed his disapproval of northern Nigerian leaders who mandated the closure of schools during Ramadan. He criticized Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano states for this decision, asserting that the leaders themselves suffer no repercussions, as they send their children to elite institutions abroad or in major cities using public funds intended for local education.
Sowore denounced these leaders as “irresponsible and wicked,” highlighting the disparity between their educational choices and those of economically disadvantaged children. His condemnation follows remarks from Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, who criticized the school closures, noting that countries like Saudi Arabia keep schools open during Ramadan.
In a pointed message on his verified social media, Sowore declared that the leaders do not enroll their children in the underfunded public schools that are closing for the fasting period. He called for change, asserting that under his potential presidency, education should not be interrupted by religious observances, as is seen in more progressive Muslim-majority countries.
Sowore’s remarks reflect broader concerns regarding education access in northern Nigeria, where illiteracy rates are notably high. The National Bureau of Statistics has reported that the affected states have some of the highest out-of-school children percentages, with Bauchi state alone standing at 54%. Education advocates argue that such closures further marginalize an already disadvantaged population.
The Katsina State government reiterated its stance by extending the school shutdown to private institutions, cautioning against non-compliance. Critics, including the Christian Association of Nigeria, have condemned this move as discriminatory and detrimental to the nation’s educational progress.
Omoyele Sowore strongly criticizes the closure of schools in northern Nigeria for Ramadan, highlighting the hypocrisy of leaders who send their children to private institutions while denying education to vulnerable students. His statements underscore a significant concern about educational disparities in the region, particularly amidst rising illiteracy rates. Advocates for education continue to call for equitable measures that prioritize the needs of all children, regardless of their socio-economic status, especially during religious periods.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
