Delta SUBEB decries destruction of 90,000 school desks

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. Speaking at a press briefing in Asaba on Tuesday, the Board’s Chairman, Hon. Samuel Mariere, expressed concern that the large-scale vandalism was being carried out by members of host communities, some allegedly influenced by “political enemies” of the government seeking to undermine its achievements in the education sector.

Mariere said a recent Needs Assessment conducted by the Board revealed that while some of the 1,141 primary schools in the state genuinely require additional furniture, more than 30 percent of existing desks had been damaged through misuse and community-induced destruction. “In many communities, the same seats provided for pupils are taken away during burials, community meetings, or football matches and never returned,” he said. “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.”

The SUBEB chairman disclosed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the immediate supply of 1,000 new seats to schools most affected by the losses. He added that another 16,000 dual desks would be distributed under the 2025 Universal Basic Education (UBE) intervention projects. Mariere also highlighted several ongoing infrastructural projects aimed at improving learning conditions in Delta schools.

These include the construction of 22 perimeter walls and gatehouses, renovation of five others, provision of 164 VIP toilets, and installation of five solar-powered boreholes to enhance hygiene and security. He added that teachers’ welfare was being prioritized through the construction of 10 staff quarters, while students have benefited from the delivery of 16,834 units of furniture, maintenance of 4,000 existing units, and the provision of 50 double-bunk beds and mattresses for boarding facilities. Mariere urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to take ownership of educational infrastructure in their areas and prevent further destruction. He warned that government investments in education must not be wasted through negligence or politically motivated sabotage.

Source: https://guardian.ng/features/education/delta-subeb-decries-destruction-of-90000-school-desks/

Date: 08Oct25