The Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has condemned the destruction of over 90,000 school desks and other furniture across the state, describing the act as “irresponsible and politically motivated”. According to SUBEB Chairman, Honourable Samuel Mariere, at a Press briefing in Asaba on Tuesday October 7, some of the desks were left under the rain, while others were deliberately damaged and sold to scavengers as scrap.
“In many communities, the same seats provided for pupils are taken away during burials, community meetings, or football matches and never returned, some are left under the rain, while others are deliberately damaged and sold to scavengers as scrap. It is sad that our collective investment in education is being undermined by the very people it is meant to serve.”
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the supply of 1,000 new seats to schools most affected by the losses. The board is working to identify and prosecute those responsible for the vandalism. SUBEB is urging parents, teachers, and community leaders to take ownership of educational infrastructure in their areas and prevent further destruction.
The state government has ongoing projects to improve learning conditions, including construction of perimeter walls, renovation of schools, and provision of VIP toilets and solar-powered boreholes.
The government is prioritizing teachers’ welfare through construction of staff quarters and training programs. The state has also successfully re-enrolled over 2,000 out-of-school children through targeted outreach and support packages.
