By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
Katsina, Nigeria – March 7, 2025
Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Yaqub Yahaya Katsina has called for calm and mutual respect between Muslims and Christians following disagreements over school holidays during Ramadan. He made the appeal during a Tafsir (Qur’anic commentary) session at Markaz in Daki Tara, Katsina.
Recently, several Muslim-majority states, including Katsina, Bauchi, Niger, and Kano, granted school holidays during Ramadan to ease economic burdens on students and parents, particularly regarding transportation costs and fasting challenges.
However, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) opposed the decision, arguing that it undermines education. This sparked backlash from some Muslims, with heated debates on social media.
Condemning inflammatory remarks from both sides, Sheikh Yaqub stated, "Neither side is entirely right. We must avoid provoking one another and promote peace and understanding."
The cleric emphasized that Muslims, as the majority in Nigeria, have the right to implement policies that align with their faith, provided they do not infringe on others’ rights. He reassured Christians that the Ramadan holiday would not disrupt academic activities or exams.
Sheikh Yaqub also highlighted the disparity in religious holidays, noting that Christians have Christmas, Good Friday, Easter Monday, and New Year’s Day, while Muslims have fewer recognized holidays. "If we respect Christian holidays, they should also acknowledge Muslim needs," he asserted.
He further urged Muslim clerics to refrain from using derogatory language against Christians, reminding them that Islam teaches peaceful coexistence. "Christians are ‘Ahlul Kitab’ (People of the Book), not infidels. Islam encourages fairness and harmony," he said.
Sheikh Yaqub cited past religious conflicts in Kaduna and Plateau, where Christians reportedly benefited more from government aid. He warned Muslims to be politically aware, suggesting that Christians could dominate leadership positions in the future if Muslims are not strategic.
"If Muslims do not take caution, Nigeria may soon have an all-Christian leadership, just as we currently have a Muslim-Muslim ticket. If that happens, Muslims will regret it," he cautioned.
He urged Christians to avoid hostility toward Muslims and advised Muslims to understand Nigeria’s political structure before reacting to issues beyond their control. "Muslims must recognize the nature of the government they live under and act wisely to protect their faith," he concluded.
Sheikh Yaqub’s remarks come amid rising religious tensions in Nigeria, with analysts stressing the importance of religious leaders fostering peace rather than division.
