The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has called on some northern Nigerian governors to stop prioritizing politics over the education of children. This appeal was made in a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, on Friday.
The PRP’s statement comes in response to the decisions by the governors of Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi states to close schools during the holy month of Ramadan. According to the party, this move has disrupted the educational programs of children and undermined their right to quality education.
Ishaq expressed concern over the contradiction between the governors’ academic qualifications and their actions. He noted, “It is pertinent to note that these governors, some of whom hold advanced degrees—Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina with a PhD in Agriculture and Rural Sociology, Nasir Idris of Kebbi with a PhD in Education, and others; have opted to prioritize political expediency over common sense and the educational needs of their constituents.”
He questioned the rationale behind closing schools during Ramadan, stating, “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? This contradiction raises significant concerns about their commitment to progress and quality education.”
The PRP also highlighted the historical precedent of uninterrupted learning during Ramadan when these leaders were students themselves. The party argued that the current decision is inconsistent and misguided, especially given the alarming rates of out-of-school children in these states, which average around 44%—significantly higher than the national average.
The statement further emphasized the negative impact of school closures on academic performance, noting that Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi already rank poorly in recent WAEC examinations and lead in the number of school dropouts in Nigeria.
While acknowledging the importance of Ramadan, the PRP stressed that education and spirituality can coexist. The party pointed to Islamic nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which adapt school schedules during Ramadan rather than closing schools entirely.
The PRP urged the governors of Bauchi, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi to prioritize children’s education over political considerations and to reverse the decision to close schools. The party called for collaborative efforts to develop policies that promote educational access without compromising spiritual observance.
DAILY MENTOR reports that the PRP’s statement underscores the need for balanced policies that address both religious and educational needs, particularly in regions grappling with high rates of out-of-school children and poor academic performance. The party’s call for immediate action highlights the urgency of safeguarding the future of millions of children in northern Nigeria.