Mubarak Shuaybu Shelleng
The Christian Association of Nigeria, Gombe State chapter is seeking clarification on an executive bill for the establishment of an Almajiri agency in the state.
CAN disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday shortly after submitting a copy of their letter of protest by Chairman Joseph Shinga, adding that the bill lacked inclusion of both faiths.
Our correspondent reports that the 13-page executive bill named Gombe State Almajiri and out-of-school children’s education agency was sponsored by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya.
The agency is to establish and manage primary schools for Almajiri and out-of-school children in the settlements predominantly populated by Almajiri and out-of-school children; formulate policy and issue guidelines in all matters relating to Almajiri and out-of-school children in the state.
Shinga expressed concerns and fears about the negative implications of the bill, which they believe could affect Christians in the state.
He added, “We can use this complex to express the concerns of Christians regarding the Almajiri and out-of-school children bill before the House of Assembly (sic). The Christians have looked at and raised concerns and mandated me to come and present this concern to the chairman of the House Committee on Education.”
While demanding the inclusion of Christians in the board constitution. We are seeking answers and clarification on the bill. The letter contains fears and concerns regarding the bill. We want the house to look at it. We want to define the composition of the board and the term out-of-school clearly. If given a chance, we are ever ready to submit our own memo for an agency, but we don’t want duplication, the reason we ask for inclusivity,” he added(sic).
Meanwhile, the Chairman, House Committee on Education, Shuaibu Adamu, in a terse message, while reacting to the association’s protest, said the bill is before the House debate.
