The Executive Director, Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), a Kogi-based civil society organization has called on federal and state governments to re-consider the planned January 18 date fixed for school’s resumption.
In a statement issued in Lokoja on Monday, the rights activist said it may be unwise to re-open schools in the face on continued spread of COVID-19.
He called on governments to consider first week in February as ideal date for school resumption across the country.
He noted that those who travelled to different parts of the nation for the yuletide season are returning to their work stations and the there is need to monitor the level of possible transmission before re-opening schools.
Miliki’s call is coming on the heels of Federal Government’s decision to review the COVID-19 safety protocols as well as the January 18 resumption date for schools in the light of Nigeria’s grim epidemiological situation with regards to the pandemic.
Speaking at Monday’s briefing of the Presidential Taskforce (PTF) on COVID-19, Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu said the earlier resumption date of January 18 was not cast in stone.
“When we decided on that date, it was just a target towards which we were working. And of course, we are giving it a review given what is happening in the country.
“Today at the PTF meeting, we looked at the rising figures and decided that probably we should take another look at the date.
“The January 18 resumption date is not sacrosanct as it is subject to constant review in view of prevailing epidemiological circumstances. We are reviewing it. In view of the rising cases, today we have considered it at the meeting of the PTF, and tomorrow, the ministry is going to take it up. So, most likely it is going to be reviewed,” Adamu stated.
