Pupils of LGEA Primary School in Ogigiri community, Ajaokuta LGA, Kogi State learn in classrooms with crumbling tiles, broken ceilings and holes, exposing them to dangers.
A civil society organisation, MonITNG, revealed the deplorable condition of the school where these pupils are forced to take classes and learn in, reports The Guardian.
Images of the school, seen by our correspondent, paint a grim picture. The photographs reveal a building on the verge of collapse, with damaged ceilings and broken tiles scarring the classrooms.
The CSO revealed that the deplorable condition of the school exposes the pupils to immense hardship.
“Pupils here have faced immense hardships. Leaking roofs during rains and broken ceilings in the heat have disrupted their studies and posed health risks. The constant threat of collapsing structures forces them to learn in fear, stripping away their right to a safe and supportive education,” it noted.
MonITNG also faulted the Kogi State Government for leaving the school in ruins despite significant allocations to education in recent years and diverting funds to misplaced priorities including constructing lavish government offices and poorly planned road projects that benefit just a few.
It added as the state government continues to spend on these misplaced priorities, residents of Ogigiri are neglected and continue to suffer.
The CSO also urged the state government to invest in education and make school renovation its priority.
“The government must now prioritise renovating schools across Kogi State. Investing in solid classrooms and repaired roofs is essential to secure pupils’ futures and break the cycle of neglect. This is not just about buildings but about honoring the trust of families relying on education for progress.
“Renovate these schools. Prioritise public education. It’s time for change. The people of Ogigiri and beyond deserve accountability and action. Renovating schools must be a top priority, ensuring every child in Kogi State can learn without fear,” it added.
