Controversy as Bauchi Polytechnic Prohibits Male–Female Interaction During Ramadan

Supporters say the policy is meant to preserve religious respect and moral discipline during Ramadan, even as the polytechnic’s management has yet to offer further clarification amid the ongoing controversy.

The management of Federal Polytechnic Bauchi has sparked widespread outrage following a directive that restricts male and female students from standing together during the holy month of Ramadan.

In a circular dated 25 February 2026 and signed by the institution’s Registrar, Alhaji Kamisu Salihu, the polytechnic instructed students not to stand together in pairs — especially male–female couples — for the duration of Ramadan.

The notice described such closeness as disrespectful to the “sanctity of the Polytechnic” during the fasting month and warned that violating students could face disciplinary consequences. As a unique punishment, the policy stated that students found breaking the rule might be required to enter into an arranged Islamic marriage (Nikkah) and would be expected to organise their own Walima (wedding reception).

The policy has been widely criticised on social media and beyond, with many Nigerians arguing that a federal academic institution should not introduce religious-based behavioural restrictions that affect personal freedoms. Critics say the directive risks imposing one belief system on all students, regardless of their individual faiths or rights.

Supporters of the measure, however, defend it as an attempt to uphold religious respect and moral discipline during Ramadan — though the management has not yet released further clarification as the controversy grows.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEADERSHIP