By Lukman Olabiyi
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has applauded the Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, for reintroducing Christian Religious Studies (CRS) in primary and secondary schools across the state.
In a statement signed by the NSCIA Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the council described the move as a demonstration of justice, fairness and inclusivity; principles deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.
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“This development is worthy of commendation. It conforms to the Islamic principles of equity and fairness, and mirrors the eternal precepts of Islam,” the statement read.
The council highlighted that Islam does not support the persecution of minorities and emphasised Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) historic efforts to protect the rights of non-Muslims under Islamic rule. “During the first century of Islamic suzerainty over Arabia, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasised the rights of the minority regarding freedom of belief and worship,” the council stated.
While reaffirming its support for the teaching of CRS in Muslim-majority areas, the NSCIA also urged the state governments in Christian-majority regions, particularly in the South East, South South and parts of the South West to emulate Governor Radda by allowing the teaching of Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) in their schools.
The council expressed concern over what it described as ongoing restrictions against Muslims in parts of Southern Nigeria, citing the case of Rivers State University, where Muslim students and staff have allegedly been denied space for congregational prayers.
The council referenced a legal battle dating back to 2012, when Muslim students filed a fundamental rights suit at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, which was later affirmed by the Court of Appeal in 2017. Despite these rulings, the Rivers State Government reportedly appealed to the Supreme Court, where the matter remains unresolved.
“The case of Rivers State University sums up the persecution of Muslims in Southern Nigeria,” the NSCIA said, stressing that such actions undermine religious freedom and national cohesion.
The council concluded by calling on all political leaders to uphold justice and embrace religious pluralism, urging that the example set by Governor Radda should be the standard across Nigeria.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that the progress and unity of Nigeria depend on the political class’ readiness to eschew injustice and embrace inclusivity,” the statement concluded.
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