The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi has sparked widespread controversy after issuing a directive prohibiting male and female students from “standing together in couples” on campus during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a circular dated February 25, 2026, signed by the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Alhaji Kamisu Salihu, the institution warned that any student found violating the order would be subjected to an immediate arranged Nikkah (Islamic marriage).
The notice reads, “During the Holy month of Ramadan, standing together in couple (boy & girl) is strictly prohibited. Please respect the sanctity of the Polytechnic and avoid unnecessary closeness.” It further added that in the event of a forced marriage, the couple would be responsible for organizing their own Walima (wedding feast).
The directive has drawn strong condemnation on social media, with critics accusing the institution of imposing Sharia-style mandates in a secular, federal academic setting.
Apostle Michael Olowookere, who shared the notice online, likened the policy to Taliban-era restrictions, saying, “Islam is all about submission and subjugation… Afghanistan no do pass this one ooo!”
Other social media users expressed concern about Nigeria’s multi-religious identity. @NobleChizaram commented, “Nigeria is not owned by one religion. Any attempt to silence others in the name of faith is extremism; this rascality should stop.”
The backlash comes amid heightened religious sensitivities in the country. Some observers argue that the policy reflects a broader agenda. Olagoke Eben (@BigEbenola) called for federal intervention, stating, “This is a federal polytechnic under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education… The registrar must be summoned to Abuja to answer questions on this open Islamization of a federal government institution.”
Meanwhile, @SolomonTheophi9 suggested the incident signals a governmental complicity in enforcing “violence and submission” to elevate one faith over others. Commentator Leonard (@ekpen76) wrote, “They’re already using Sharia to control Christians in the North. Sharia breeds terrorism.”
Some users highlighted perceived contradictions within campus culture. @johwestz alleged that while the school enforces strict daytime rules, lecturers’ cars often visit female hostels at night, and the nearby Gwalamaiji area remains active after dark.
The controversy has also drawn international attention. @bobnyaknno1 linked the policy to U.S. concerns, referencing a report by Representative Riley M. Moore, which labels Nigeria as one of the deadliest countries for Christians and calls for the repeal of Sharia provisions that undermine basic human rights.
The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) supported these findings, advocating for decisive action and the creation of “sovereign safe zones” for Christians to freely practice their faith.
The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi has yet to issue a statement responding to the criticism.
