A Kaduna-based journalist, Abdullahi Alhassan, has strongly criticized former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, along with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) for their opposition to the decision by some Northern states to close schools during Ramadan.
In a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Kaduna, Alhassan expressed disappointment over what he described as ignorance of Nigeria’s federal system by those condemning the school closures.
“It is quite unfortunate that someone of Mr. Sowore’s standing once a presidential aspirant fails to understand the system of government we practice in Nigeria. Even more disappointing is that CAN and NANS share his sentiments on this issue,” the statement read.
Alhassan emphasized that Nigeria operates a federal system, which grants states the autonomy to implement policies that align with their history, environment, religion, and societal values.
“Federalism means every component of the country or state has the right to introduce policies that are suitable for its people. It is laughable and regrettable that individuals of such standing make baseless statements, suggesting that Northern states that close schools during Ramadan are neglecting education.”
He further explained that federalism allows different states to govern themselves based on their traditions, beliefs, and local circumstances.
“If any Northern state believes that closing schools during Ramadan aligns with its history, values, and religious beliefs, so be it. There is no national law mandating uniformity in governance. The key concern should be ensuring that students complete their syllabus before their final examinations, regardless of temporary closures.”
Alhassan noted that state governments have the responsibility to adjust their academic calendars to accommodate any lost time, ensuring that students are not at a disadvantage.
“If Kano State, for example, decides that students and teachers should observe Ramadan without academic activities, it is within its rights. What matters is that the state government provides a mechanism to compensate for the lost weeks, either before or after Ramadan, as determined by the education authorities.”
Criticizing Sowore further, Alhassan questioned his understanding of federalism, arguing that his statements suggest a lack of knowledge about Nigeria’s governance system.
“It is laughable that someone aspiring to lead this country does not even grasp the basics of federalism. We do not operate a unitary system where policies must be uniform across all states. Each state has the constitutional right to enact laws that align with its unique environment and values.”
He urged Sowore and others opposing the policy to educate themselves on federalism before making uninformed statements.
“Mr. Sowore should go back to school and learn the principles of federalism, especially as someone who once sought to govern this country. It would be disastrous for a leader to be unaware of the fundamental laws of the nation. Anyone who feels offended by these school closures should first study the doctrine of federalism before speaking.”
Drawing comparisons with the United States, Alhassan highlighted that different states in America have varying laws, reinforcing the flexibility that federalism allows.
“In the United States, laws differ from state to state. Some states permit gun ownership, while others prohibit it. Similarly, laws in Arizona are not the same as those in California. That is federalism in practice.”
He concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria’s federal structure allows each state to govern according to its historical, religious, and social context.
Abdullahi Alhassan is Journalist, Translator, Interpreter, Transcriber, Mobilizer and Peace Advocate