Katsina government closes Almajiri schools, threatens arrest of Islamiyya schools proprietors

Katsina State government in the Northeast Nigeria has closed all Islamiyya and Almajiri schools.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State government, Dr Mustapha Inuwa in Katsina, said the decisions were reached after a review in a meeting involving the Government, Security Chiefs, Islamic religious leaders, Ulamas, members of the State COVID-19 Emergency and Response Committee and other stakeholders.

According to him, anyone proprietor found culpable would be arrested.

The SSG also stressed that all forms of street begging in the street in Katsina State has been banned and.anyone caught will be punished with the parents and tutors.

“Government has noted with concern step taken by some proprietors of Islamiyya and local Qur’anic schools to reopen their schools following the relaxation of COVID-19 lockdown order in the State.

“The governor has directed security agents to arrest and bring to book defaulters.

“The general public are also reminded to continue observing the health and security protocols such as wearing of face mask, maintaining of social distancing, regular washing of hands with soap and use of sanitizer.”