Alltimepost.com Sincerity of Purpose
By Idahosa Musa
Edo Muslims for Equity and Good Governance (EMEGG), have expressed serious concern over the planned intention of the Edo State Government to handover public Schools to Christian Missionary Organisations in the State.
The group, which raised serious concern over the fate of Muslim students and teachers in the affected schools, however, admonished the State Governor, Monday Okpehbolo, to have a rethink and consult extensively with the people before implementing the policy.
The group’s concern was contained in a statement, signed by Sirajudeen Muhammad and Abdulah Umah, General Coordinator, and Secretary respectively of the organization.
EMEGG said that the state government should ensure that the interest of all its citizens, irrespective of faith are adequately safeguarded.
The statement read: “Your Excellency, we have observed with deep concern the recent move by the State Government to hand over public schools to Christian Missionaries.
“Sir, while we acknowledge that some of these schools may have been initiated by missionaries, it is imperative to point out that many of the lands upon which these institutions were built were generously donated by host communities, some of which are predominantly Muslims.
“Since the takeover of these schools by the government, they have been maintained and developed with public funds derived from taxes paid by all citizens of the state, Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
“It is, therefore, unjust and inequitable to return such institutions to private religious bodies without due consultation and consideration of the diverse religious makeup of our state.
Continuing, the statement said: “Your Excellency sir, we are particularly concerned about the fate of Muslim students and teachers in these schools”.
“We beg to ask with due respect sir, will their rights to religious expression, education and employment be protected under the new management?
“Will the learning environment remain inclusive and non-discriminatory? These are critical questions that must not be ignored sir.
“Your Excellency, we respectfully urge the government to tread with caution and engage in broad-based consultations involving all religious and community stakeholders before making such far-reaching decisions”.
It added: “The unity, peace and inclusiveness of Edo State must be preserved above all other considerations. We strongly advise that any decision to cede ownership or control of public schools to religious organizations should be suspended pending such consultations.
“The government must ensure that the interests of all citizens irrespective of faith are adequately safeguarded. Please accept the assurances of our highest regard and our continued prayers for your wisdom and success in leading our beloved state”.
It would be recall that Governor Okpebholo had on Monday approved the return of public Secondary Schools to Christian Missionary Organizations in Edo State.
According to the statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the affected schools include, Our Lady of Fatima College, Auchi, St. Angela’s Grammar School, Uzairue, St. John Grammar School, Fugar, St. Peter’s Grammar School, Agenebode.
Others are St. James Grammar School, Afuze, St. Joseph College, Otuo, St. Mary Grammar School, Eme-Ora and St. Aloysius Gonzaga Grammar School, Ososo.
