By Amos Tauna
The decision by Governor Nasiru Ahmed El-Rufai of Kaduna State in northern Nigeria to reopen tertiary institutions in Southern Kaduna closed down since last year has been described as a welcome development.
Sunday Marshall Katung, member House of Representatives representing Zangon Kataf/Jaba federal Constituency in a statement said the closure has been the subject of many interpretations, explanations and litigation, stressing that the reopening would provide relieve to both students and parents not forgetting traders who offer services at those institutions.
“The students in particular will be delighted to resume the pursuit of their academic activities.
“Notwithstanding the unjustifiable circumstances that led to the long closure of the tertiary institutions while secondary and primary schools were still open for academic activities, I want to sincerely appreciate all those who contributed in diverse ways towards the reopening of the schools.
“The Southern Kaduna Peoples’ Union, SOKAPU, which coordinated the peaceful agitation for the reopening deserved special commendation. The Centrum Initiative For Development And Fundamental Rights Advocacy, CEDRA, the Southern Kaduna Lawyers who selflessly deployed their resources and expertise towards a judicial settlement for the reopening are patriots.
“Southern Kaduna Youth and Students Forum, SKYSFOM, who went about pleading for the reopening, including holding press conferences, protests and collation of signatures in order to be allowed to resume school are also appreciated.
“Our traditional rulers, religious leaders, lawmakers, the youths of Southern Kaduna, members of the media, and so many others both within and outside the state who spoke on the media, and other platforms for the sake of calling for the reopening of these schools are acknowledged.
“You stood on the side of fairness to ensure the enthronement of justice through peaceful means and posterity shall not forget your efforts.
“I call on all people from Southern Kaduna in particular and the entire state to continue to live peacefully with one another irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, because our strength lies in our unity. This is imperative because the only way we can benefit from the dividends of democracy is in an atmosphere of peace,” he stressed.
