- Controversy: Governor’s plan to hand over 36 schools to Christian missionaries.
- Opposition: Muslim Congress (TMC) calls the move discriminatory and unconstitutional.
- Location: Primarily affects Edo North, a Muslim-majority area.
- Concerns: Allegations of violating Nigeria’s secular principles and misuse of public funds.
- Call to Action: TMC urges intervention from various bodies to reverse the decision.
Why is Everyone So Mad?
The Muslim Congress (TMC), led by Alhaji Ismail Muthair, is fuming! They believe Governor Okpebholo’s actions are a direct attack on Nigeria’s secular constitution. According to them, giving these schools to Christian groups is like endorsing one religion over others. Imagine building a house with contributions from everyone, then handing it over to only one family – that’s how they see it!
What’s the Big Deal About These Schools?
Muthair points out a critical detail: many of these schools are built on land donated by Muslim communities. The understanding was that these lands would contribute to public education, benefiting everyone. Now, the TMC fears these schools will become centers for religious indoctrination, pushing a specific faith on students. It’s like donating money for a hospital, only to find out it only treats patients of a certain religion.
Is This Even Legal?
That’s the million-dollar question! The TMC argues that the governor’s decision violates several sections of the Nigerian Constitution. They cite Section 10, which prohibits the adoption of any state religion, and Section 38, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. They also highlight Section 42, which ensures equality for all citizens, regardless of their faith. The Nigerian Constitution is very clear on these rights.
Money Matters: Who Pays the Bills?
Here’s where it gets even more complicated. The TMC claims that the schools being handed over are not the same ones from decades ago. These schools have been expanded and upgraded with public funds – taxes paid by citizens of all faiths. The governor’s plan to even use public funds to renovate these schools before handing them over is seen as a blatant misuse of state resources. It’s like using taxpayer money to build a church or a mosque – wouldn’t that cause an uproar?
Where Was the Consultation?
Another major point of contention is the lack of consultation. The TMC claims Governor Okpebholo made this decision without talking to Muslim stakeholders, education boards, or even the affected communities. This perceived exclusion of Muslim voices is seen as a deliberate disregard for inclusive governance. It’s like making a major decision that affects an entire community without even asking for their input!
What’s Next?
The TMC is demanding an immediate reversal of this policy. They are calling on the Edo State Government, the National Assembly, the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, civil society organizations, and all advocates of justice to step in and prevent what they see as a violation of constitutional and democratic principles. Failure to do so, they warn, will deepen religious divisions, erode public trust, and set a dangerous precedent for institutionalized discrimination. The stakes are high, and the future of religious harmony in Edo State hangs in the balance.
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