By Peter Duru, Makurdi
Fresh controversy has trailed the Benue State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management following allegations that the Commissioner, Dr. Margaret Adamu owns and operates a private school in Makurdi that allegedly falls short of approved standards.
The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Paul Tion, made the allegation during a press conference, where he called for the Commissioner’s immediate resignation and demanded a formal investigation into the matter.
Tion said the call became necessary after what he described as “credible intelligence” suggesting that the Commissioner was behind the ownership of a school allegedly operating in breach of state educational regulations.
“I address you on a matter of grave concern regarding uncovered gross violation and compromise of educational standards in Makurdi by the Commissioner of Education and Knowledge Management,” he said.
He described the institution as a “mushroom school,” which are usually closed down by the Ministry, explaining that such schools were typically hurriedly established without proper planning, infrastructure, or regulatory approval, often prioritizing financial returns over educational quality.
According to him, the school, identified as Marleon International School, is located behind the Mobile Barracks in Adeke, Makurdi, and allegedly owned by Dr. Adamu.
Tion claimed that a discreet investigation by concerned citizens uncovered pictorial and video evidence suggesting that the school operates from a converted four-bedroom residential apartment, with rooms allegedly serving as classrooms.
He argued that such an arrangement contradicts state guidelines, which require schools to operate in purpose-built facilities with approved building plans, adequate classroom dimensions, proper ventilation, emergency exits, and a clear separation from residential buildings.
The PDP chairman further alleged that the use of unsafe toilets on the premises violates existing regulations that mandate hygienic VIP or water-cistern toilet systems to safeguard children’s health and safety.
He also raised concerns over staffing levels, alleging that the school runs Nursery, Primary, and Secondary sections with only 13 teachers, which he said fell below the stipulated teacher–pupil ratio of 1:25 and the minimum requirement of one teacher per class.
“In addition, there is no evidence of a functional playground, basic health facilities, potable water supply, perimeter fencing, fire-fighting equipment, or a library as required under extant regulations,” Tion alleged.
Describing the situation as a potential conflict of interest, he said, “If the chief custodian of educational standards is found to be operating below those same standards, it undermines public trust and the integrity of the system.”
Tion therefore called on Dr. Adamu to resign from office, insisting that her continued stay could erode confidence in the ministry’s regulatory oversight. He also urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegations and determine any implications for the state’s education sector.
Efforts to obtain the Commissioner’s response were unsuccessful as of press time. She had earlier indicated she would respond but did not revert, and subsequent calls to her mobile phone were not answered.
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