Monday Okpebholo, the Edo State Governor
A legal action has been initiated in Edo State to halt the handover of public primary and secondary schools to the Catholic Mission, with claimants arguing the move violates constitutional provisions on religious freedom and equality.
The Edo Muslims filed the suit for Good Governance on behalf of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Edo-Delta Area Council. The claimants, Sirajudeen Muhammad and Abdullahi Umar, contend that the state government’s decision failed to consult Muslim stakeholders and disregarded the principle of religious neutrality in public institutions.
At issue are Sections 38 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect freedom of religion and prohibit discrimination against individuals based on their religious beliefs. The claim seeks a court declaration that the handover of schools — including prominent institutions in Benin, Irrua, and Uzairue — is unconstitutional, null and void.
The suit also challenges a reported list of 36 additional public schools earmarked for transfer and seeks protection for staff who may be affected by the change in management.
The court is expected to determine whether the state’s policy aligns with legal and constitutional requirements for fairness, equity, and secular governance in education. This outcome could influence future decisions on the management of public schools in Nigeria.
Leave feedback about this