PDP chair demands Education Commissioner’s resignation over substandard school in Benue

A fresh dispute has emerged around the Benue State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management following claims that its Commissioner, Dr. Margaret Adamu, owns and runs a private school in Makurdi that allegedly fails to meet approved standards.

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Paul Tion, made the allegation during a press briefing, where he called for the Commissioner’s resignation and demanded a thorough investigation.

Tion said his action was based on what he described as “credible intelligence” indicating that the Commissioner was linked to a school operating in violation of state education 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 stated.

He labeled the institution a “mushroom school,” explaining that such schools are often hurriedly set up without proper planning, infrastructure, or official approval, with profit taking priority over quality education.

According to him, the school, identified as Marleon International School, is located behind the Mobile Barracks in Adeke area of Makurdi and is allegedly owned by Dr. Adamu.

Tion claimed that an independent investigation by concerned residents uncovered photo and video materials showing that the school operates from a converted four-bedroom residential building, with rooms reportedly used as classrooms.

He argued that this arrangement violates state guidelines, which require schools to function in purpose-built structures with approved plans, adequate classroom sizes, proper ventilation, emergency exits, and separation from residential areas.

The PDP chairman also alleged that the school uses unsafe toilet facilities, contrary to regulations that mandate hygienic VIP or water-flush systems to protect pupils’ health.

In addition, he raised concerns over staffing, claiming that the school runs Nursery, Primary, and Secondary sections with only 13 teachers, below the recommended teacher–pupil ratio of 1:25 and the minimum requirement of one teacher per class.

He further alleged that the institution lacks essential facilities such as a playground, health unit, potable water, perimeter fencing, fire-fighting equipment, and a functional library.

Describing the matter as a conflict of interest, Tion 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.”

He called on the Commissioner to step aside, warning that her continued stay in office could weaken public confidence in the ministry’s oversight role. He also urged Hyacinth Alia to set up a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegations and assess their impact on the state’s education sector.

Attempts to reach Dr. Adamu for her response were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. Although she had earlier indicated she would react, she did not do so, and subsequent phone calls were unanswered.