It was a heartbreaking sight at Enekorogha Grammar School in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State. Students were seen sitting on the bare floor—some on broken blocks, others on the dusty ground—to learn and write their examinations. With no desks, chairs, or even proper classroom buildings, they try their best to focus while their teachers also struggle without offices or basic teaching materials.
Founded in the early 1980s, the school now lies in a shameful state. Most of the buildings are worn out and were never touched by government contractors. Instead, individuals and the community built the few blocks of classrooms the school uses today. The area has no fence, making it unsafe for both students and teachers, and the surroundings are infested with reptiles.
Despite all these, when approached for a response, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, refused to comment or speak with the press, even after meeting her in her office. This silence raises serious concerns about her role and the Ministry’s responsibility, especially considering the huge monthly federal allocations received by the Delta State government for education and infrastructure.
According to Mr Peter Ganagana, Chairman of the school’s Education Committee, the state government has never built a single structure in the school. “The only six-classroom block was built by a private individual,” he said. “Other parts were put together by the community with little resources. Yet, over 80% of our students don’t have desks to sit on.”
The school population has grown to over 350 students, yet it only has six government-employed teachers. One principal adds up to make it seven. To bridge the gap, the community pays stipends to volunteer teachers, trying to keep learning alive. It is a true show of sacrifice and resilience.
“The students are writing their second-term exams now,” Mr Ganagana added, “and many are doing so sitting on the floor. The only desks in the school were donated by a kind old student—just 50 in total. That’s all we have.”
Despite sending complaints and requests to the Post Primary Education Board and the Ministry of Education, no concrete action has been taken. Delegations have come to “inspect” the situation, yet their promises remain empty words.
Worse still, classroom ceilings are collapsing, roofs are gone, windows and doors are missing, and some rooms are no longer usable. In such a dangerous learning environment, it’s hard to believe this is a school supported by a state known for its oil wealth and federal funding.
“Government isn’t doing its job,” Mr. Ganagana said bluntly. “We need total renovation. We need desks, chairs, more teachers, and a safe school environment. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori must act now before it’s too late.”
Sadly, efforts to reach the school principal were unsuccessful. His phone was unreachable, and teachers who were approached declined to speak, saying they were not authorized.
What makes this story even more shocking is how Delta State, blessed with abundant resources and federal funding, can allow such neglect to exist. Education is the backbone of any society, yet these children—who are eager to learn—are forced to sit in filth, risking their health and safety.
It’s not just unfair; it’s unacceptable.
We call on the Delta State Government, the Ministry of Education, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to immediately address the horrifying condition of Enekorogha Grammar School. The future of these children should not be sacrificed due to government negligence or silence from those elected to serve.
Let this not be another forgotten headline. Let it be the turning point for true change.
