Sowore Criticizes Northern Governors as 'Ignorant' for Closing Schools During Ramadan

Human rights advocate and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has strongly condemned the decision by northern governors to shut down schools in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states during the Ramadan fasting period. Sowore described the move as "ignorant" and "idiotic," arguing that it undermines education and contradicts the principles of a secular state.

In a recent interview, Sowore questioned why Nigeria, a secular nation, would allow religious practices to disrupt academic activities. He highlighted that even in Saudi Arabia, a country deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, schools remain open during Ramadan. "Saudi Arabia, where millions go for the lesser Hajj—did they close their schools? These governors are ignorant Muslims. Let me be blunt: they are idiots," Sowore stated.

Sowore emphasized that under his leadership, religious considerations would not dictate governance. "If I become President of Nigeria, states will have no business mixing religion with governance. I won’t tolerate schools being closed for fasting. It’s outrageous that this has become normalized. Religion is sensitive, but it shouldn’t interfere with education," he said.

While extending Ramadan greetings to Muslims, Sowore criticized the closure of schools, including Quranic learning centers, questioning how students would study the Quran if schools were shut. "It’s absurd to close schools where knowledge is shared, especially Quranic centers. How will students learn the Quran if schools are closed for fasting? This reflects the depth of ignorance in Nigerian leadership. These leaders are ignoramuses—idiots, to put it plainly," he added.

Sowore pointed out that Saudi Arabia keeps schools open to nurture future Quranic leaders, stressing that religion is a global issue, not limited to northern Nigeria. "Karl Marx said religion is the opium of the masses. Once people are consumed by it, they lose their rationality. Separating religion from state is crucial," he remarked.

He proposed alternative solutions, such as providing meals for students to break their fast at school and continuing education during Ramadan. "Schools should offer food so students can break their fast and continue learning. Scientifically, fasting sharpens the mind. It’s a better time to learn, not a reason to shut down education," Sowore explained.

Sowore also criticized religious leaders for weaponizing faith in Nigeria, citing examples of religious figures using law enforcement to silence critics. "Religious leaders don’t want to hear the truth. They’ve turned religion into a weapon. They claim to rely on God but use the police to fight their battles. It’s hypocrisy," he said.

He further dismissed the effectiveness of religious institutions, stating that many pastors and imams are individuals who failed in other aspects of life. "Most pastors today are people who couldn’t succeed in real life. They use religion as a fallback. If churches were converted into hospitals, they’d save more lives," Sowore argued.

Sowore’s comments come amid a heated debate over the school closures, with the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) defending the policy and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) opposing it. MURIC accused CAN of meddling in Muslim affairs, while CAN argued that the closures discriminate against Christian students and disrupt education. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh hinted at potential legal action if the policy isn’t reversed.

Meanwhile, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that the four states enforcing school closures already have some of the highest rates of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Bauchi leads with 54%, followed by Kebbi (45%), Katsina (38%), and Kano (35%). These figures are significantly higher than the national average of 34%.

Despite these alarming statistics, the Katsina State Hisbah Board recently issued a directive mandating the closure of all private schools during Ramadan, warning of consequences for non-compliance. The move has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning its impact on education and the future of Nigerian youth.

Source News
Sahara reporters

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