The management of Federal Polytechnic Bauchi is facing heavy backlash after issuing a controversial directive warning male and female students against standing together as couples on campus during the Ramadan fast.
In a circular dated February 25, 2026, and signed by the institution’s Registrar and Secretary to Council, Alhaji Kamisu Salihu, students were cautioned that any male and female found “standing together in couples” within the school premises during the holy month risk being subjected to an immediate Nikkah — an Islamic marriage rite.
The notice stressed that “during the Holy month of Ramadan, standing together in couple boy & girl is strictly prohibited,” urging students to uphold the sanctity of the institution and avoid what it described as unnecessary closeness. It further warned that where such a marriage is conducted, the affected students would be responsible for footing the full cost of the Walima, the traditional wedding feast.
The directive has since ignited widespread debate online, with many Nigerians questioning its legality and compatibility with the country’s secular constitutional framework.
“This is a federal institution. Threatening young adults with marriage over mere interaction is inappropriate and excessive,” a social media user wrote.
Some students also expressed concern over what they described as a coercive undertone in the announcement.
“How can a public school regulate who we stand with or talk to and attach marriage as punishment? That raises serious rights issues,” a student said.
A lecturer at the Polytechnic called for clarity on the matter, asking whether the circular was merely advisory or intended for strict enforcement. “Students and staff deserve proper clarification. Is this symbolic, or is it a policy that will actually be implemented?” the lecturer queried.
As of the time of filing this report, the institution’s management had yet to release an official statement addressing the growing controversy surrounding the directive.