Hey Nigerian Christians – Enough With The Bigotry

The recent uproar from some Nigerian Christians over the decision by Katsina, Kebbi, and Bauchi states to close schools for the holy month of Ramadan is yet another reminder of the deep-seated prejudice that some Christians in Nigeria hold towards anything associated with Islam and Muslims. The decision to observe this holiday is neither new nor illegal — it is well within the rights of these states, just as Christian-majority states regularly declare holidays during Christian festivities.

Let me be clear — the schools are not closing arbitrarily. The decision is part of the officially approved academic calendar, and the timing aligns with the globally recognised Islamic holy month. Ramadan is not just about fasting; it is a deeply spiritual period where Muslims devote themselves to prayers, charity, and community service. In a region where the vast majority are Muslims, it is only reasonable to create space for religious observance. Why, then, does this simple act trigger such unnecessary outrage from some Christian voices?

This hypocrisy becomes even more glaring when one remembers that Christian-dominated states have done the same, if not more. Just a few months ago, in December 2024, the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, declared a two-week holiday for civil servants to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Nobody batted an eye. This is not unusual — Cross River State has also been declaring extended holidays for Christmas and the famous Calabar Carnival since 2004. These are Christian holidays, observed in Christian-majority states, and nobody labels it religious bigotry. But when Muslim states exercise the same right, suddenly it becomes a national scandal. Why the double standard?

This selective outrage is a symptom of the deep-rooted bigotry that some Nigerian Christians harbor toward Muslims. Any policy, tradition, or cultural expression tied to Islam is immediately framed as backward, oppressive, or a sign of religious dominance. Yet similar practices from Christian communities are seen as cultural pride and religious freedom. Why this hypocrisy? Why the constant anger whenever Muslim states make decisions that align with their people’s beliefs? What exactly is the problem?

Enough is enough. Nigerian Muslims are not second-class citizens. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion and allows states to make decisions that reflect the cultural and religious identities of their people. If Christian states can observe Christian holidays without controversy, then Muslim states can observe Islamic holidays without needing to apologize to anyone. No group has a monopoly on public holidays, religious expression, or cultural identity.

It’s time for Nigerian Christians who engage in this unnecessary provocation to stop this religious bigotry. Live and let live. Respect the rights of others the same way you demand your rights to be respected. Nigeria is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic country, and it can only thrive when we all respect each other’s beliefs and traditions.

If you can celebrate Christmas and Easter with state-backed holidays in Benue, Cross River, and many other Christian-majority states, then Muslims can celebrate Ramadan in their own way too. Anything less is not just hypocrisy — it’s pure bigotry. And it’s time we all say: enough is enough.

Ammar M. Rajab wrote from Kaduna, Nigeria.