By
Editor
The Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs (EDSCIA) has called upon the Edo State Government, led by Senator Monday Okpebholo, to reconsider its recent pronouncement regarding the handing over of schools to missionaries.
The Council, representing the Muslim Ummah in the state, expressed significant apprehension about the potential negative implications of such a policy.
In a letter signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Abdulazeez Nosakhare Igbinidu, addressed to the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Council acknowledged the Governor's people-oriented programmes and his unprecedented inclusion of Muslims in governance.
However, it strongly voiced concerns that the proposed handover could adversely affect a broad spectrum of students and families.
The Council highlighted several key points of contention including: Apprehension among non-Catholics due to the proposal's potential implications; Government's historical investments in these schools, benefiting all residents regardless of religious affiliation; Threat to free education which may deny some students access to the free education currently provided by the administration.
Others are: Affordability issues as not all citizens can afford the potentially exorbitant fees charged by private schools; Increased dropouts as the inability of individuals and families to afford private schooling could lead to an increase in school dropouts for those without alternatives and Imposition of alien principles as non-Catholic children might be forced to imbibe principles at variance with their faith if no alternatives are provided.
In light of these concerns, the Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs put forth the following prayers:
That the government consult more extensively with stakeholders to mitigate the potential negative effects of the policy; That action on the handing over of these schools be stayed until alternative solutions for those who will be affected are provided; That the government maintain the current harmonious relationship among Edo citizens.
Alhaji Igbinidu noted that the views expressed in the letter supersede any other opinions previously attributed to the Council on this matter.
He concluded by thanking the Governor for his understanding and expressed hope that the request would receive appropriate attention, with a prayer for the continued peace and blessings of Allah.
