21/05/2025
Kogi Primary School Pupils Sit In Flooded Classrooms Despite Governor Ododo’s N29billion Education Budget
During a recent inspection by civic technology platform Monitng, it was discovered that the school’s roofs are leaking, ceilings have caved in, and the classrooms are no longer safe or conducive for learning.
The Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) School 2, a public primary school in Ero, Ajaokuta Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State, is reeling under collapse after years of government neglect — despite the state allocating ₦76.9 billion to the education sector between 2023 and 2025.
During a recent inspection by civic technology platform Monitng, it was discovered that the school’s roofs are leaking, ceilings have caved in, and the classrooms are no longer safe or conducive for learning.
Pupils are made to sit on broken chairs in dusty rooms, with no protection from either scorching sun or heavy rainfall.
While Kogi State budgeted ₦22.5 billion (twenty-two point five billion naira) for education in 2023, ₦25.3 billion in 2024, and ₦29.1 billion for 2025, there is almost nothing on the ground at LGEA School 2, Ero to reflect these figures.
“Dear Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo,” Monitng’s report began. “A recent visit to LGEA (Local Government Education Authority) School 2, Ero in Ajaokuta Local Government Area, Kogi State, left us heartbroken.
“The school is in a terrible state, roofs are leaking, ceilings are falling apart, and classrooms are no longer safe or conducive for learning. During the dry season, the heat is unbearable, and when it rains, water floods the classrooms. Pupils are forced to sit on broken chairs in dusty, crumbling spaces. No child should have to learn in such conditions.”
“This is happening despite Kogi State budgeting ₦22.5 billion for education in 2023, ₦25.3 billion in 2024, and ₦29.1 billion in 2025. Sadly, there is little to show for it in schools like LGEA School 2, Ero.
The previous administration under Yahaya Bello failed to prioritise basic school infrastructure, and the effects are glaring—collapsed buildings, lack of furniture, and no functioning staff offices.”
“During our visit, the headmistress of the school received us with open arms. She expressed how much she had longed for someone to come and see what the school has become.
“Her voice carried both frustration and hope. She said she has been searching for ways to raise awareness about the school’s poor condition, with little success.”
“She went on to explain how she and members of the local community have written letters and made calls to their representatives.
“They have tried every possible means to get help. But the school has remained neglected. As she led us around the premises, it was clear how much damage the buildings have suffered — walls cracked, windows missing, ceilings caving in, and staff offices abandoned.”
“This is beyond just a story of a broken school. It is a story about children who want to learn, teachers who are trying against all odds, and a community that has not given up.
“Governor Ododo, the people of Ajaokuta are hopeful that your administration will not look away. Let LGEA School 2, Ero be the beginning of true reform in education infrastructure across Kogi State.”
The report has further fuelled calls for immediate government intervention and a full audit of education expenditure in Kogi State.
CC: Sahara Reporters
