Four predominantly Muslim states in northern Nigeria have ordered the closure of schools for the holy month of Ramadan, drawing the threat of nationwide protests Monday from an education union.
In an unusual decision that was also criticised by Christian groups, authorities in Kano, Katsina, Bauchi and Kebbi states last week closed primary and secondary schools in the middle of the term to enable pupils to observe the Ramadan fast at home.
Nigeria is roughly evenly split between Christians and Muslims, with a Muslim-majority north and Christian-majority south.
Though millions live side by side, Africa's most populous nation has seen, throughout its history, outbursts of tension and violence across religious lines.
