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By Abdullahi Inuwa
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria Chapter, has called for an urgent and lasting resolution to the reported shortage of academic staff in the Arabic and Islamic Studies Unit of the University of Jos.
The human rights organisation, which is affiliated with the United Nations through Special Consultative Status with ECOSOC, said prompt intervention by relevant authorities was necessary to safeguard students’ access to education and prevent the issue from escalating into unnecessary tension.
In a statement signed by its Country Director, Nigeria Office, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, IHRC-RFT acknowledged reports that steps were already being taken to address the staffing challenge but urged authorities to ensure that such efforts result in a sustainable solution.
The organisation stressed that education remains a fundamental human right, citing Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognises everyone’s right to education.
It also referenced Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, which directs the State towards ensuring equal and adequate educational opportunities at all levels.
According to IHRC-RFT, resolving the staffing situation in Arabic and Islamic Studies would therefore support Nigeria’s constitutional objectives while reinforcing international human rights principles.
The organisation further urged stakeholders to approach the matter through dialogue, fairness and responsible institutional action, particularly given what it described as the historical and security sensitivities surrounding Jos and Plateau State.
It warned that issues capable of generating misunderstanding or public anxiety should be handled carefully to protect social harmony, promote non-discrimination and uphold respect for cultural and religious diversity.
IHRC-RFT called on the Federal Government, Federal Ministry of Education, National Universities Commission (NUC), National Assembly, management of the University of Jos, Plateau State Government and traditional authorities in Jos to work together towards an immediate and sustainable solution.
A key part of the proposed intervention, the organisation said, should be the prompt recruitment of qualified lecturers and the strengthening and preservation of Arabic and Islamic Studies programmes at the university.
It also urged stakeholders to maintain a commitment to fairness, inclusion, academic excellence and peaceful coexistence.
The group maintained that resolving the matter promptly would not only protect students’ academic interests but also strengthen confidence in the university system and contribute to peace and stability in Plateau State.
“Protecting the right to education while promoting peace, equality, non-discrimination, and respect for cultural and religious diversity is essential to preventing circumstances that could undermine social harmony and human rights,” the organisation stated.
IHRC-RFT reaffirmed its readiness to support dialogue, human rights protection, access to quality education and peace-building efforts in line with internationally recognised human rights principles.
Press Release Signed By Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu
Country Director, Nigeria Office
International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT)
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