Federal Polytechnic Bans Male, Female Students From Standing Together During Ramadan, Threatens To ‘Marry’ Violators

In a notification dated February 25, 2026, signed by the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Alh. Kamisu Salihu, the institution warned that any students caught violating the directive would be subjected to an immediate arranged Nikkah (Islamic marriage).

The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, has ignited controversy following a directive strictly prohibiting male and female students from “standing together in couples” on campus during the month of Ramadan.

The circular, stated that “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,” the notice read, adding that in the event of such a forced marriage, the couple would be held responsible for arranging their own Walima (wedding feast).

The directive has drawn sharp condemnation across social media platforms, with many accusing the federal institution of enforcing Sharia-style mandates in a secular academic environment.

Apostle Michael Olowookere, who shared the notice, drew parallels to the Taliban regime, stating, “Islam is all about submission and subjugation… Afghanistan no do pass this one ooo!”

Echoing these sentiments, @NobleChizaram argued that Nigeria’s multi-religious identity is being threatened.

“Nigeria is not owned by one religion. Any attempt to silence others in the name of faith is extremism; this rascality should stop,” the X user wrote.

The controversy comes at a time of heightened religious tension in the country. Some commentators have linked the school’s policy to a broader agenda.

X user Olagoke Eben of the Big God (@BigEbenola) called for federal intervention, noting, “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.”

Another X user, @SolomonTheophi9, used the incident to advocate for more radical political shifts, alleging that the government is complicit in a “violence and submission” agenda designed to make one faith supreme.

Leonard (@ekpen76) wrote: “They’re already using Sharia to control Christians in the North, Sharia breeds terrorism.”

Meanwhile, some users pointed to perceived hypocrisy within the campus culture.

User @johwestz claimed that while the school enforces strict daylight rules, the reality at night is far different, alleging that lecturers’ cars frequently visit female hostels and the Gwalamaiji area remains busy after dark.

The backlash has also touched upon international relations and human rights advocacy.

Commentator @bobnyaknno1 noted that such policies justify recent reports sent to the White House by U.S. Representative Riley M. Moore, which label Nigeria as one of the deadliest places for Christians and call for the repeal of Sharia codes that undermine basic human rights.

The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) recently supported these U.S. findings, urging for “decisive action” and the creation of “sovereign safe zones” for Christians to practice their faith without fear of extremist terror.