PRESS RELEASE: GOVERNOR GODWIN OBASEKI DESTROYED ERAH GRAMMAR SCHOOL BUILT BY LATE PROF. AMBROSE ALLI: A CALL FOR URGENT ATTENTION AND INVESTIGATION

ISSUED IN COMMEMORATION OF CHILDREN'S DAY, 27TH MAY,2024

Today, as we commemorate Children's Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the rights and well-being of children across Nigeria, it is with a deep sense of responsibility and concern that I, Hon. Comrade Fred Enaikhe Aleburu, President, Owan General Assembly of Nigeria (OGAN), address the tragic state of Erah Grammar School in Erah, Owan East Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo State Nigeria. This press release serves not only as a reflection on our past but also as a call to action for the future of our children. Which totally totally violates  neglect the united nation’s SDGS Goal 4 on Quality education, aim to ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, are able to go to school.

Erah Grammar School was established in 1980 by the esteemed Late Prof. Ambrose Alli, the then Governor of the defunct Bendel State. Late Prof. Ambrose Alli, a man of vision and unwavering commitment to education, understood that the foundation of any prosperous society lies in the education of its youth. His administration embarked on an ambitious project to build schools across the state, with Erah Grammar School being one of the flagship institutions.

Under Prof. Alli’s leadership and other successive Governors, Erah Grammar School quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the best academic centers in Nigeria. The school was renowned not only for its academic excellence but also for its role in fostering a well-rounded education, including extracurricular activities that promoted the holistic development of students. Graduates of Erah Grammar School went on to excel in various fields, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of Edo State and beyond.

THE DECLINE UNDER GOVERNOR GODWIN OBASEKI

Regrettably, the story of Erah Grammar School has taken a tragic turn under the current administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. The once-thriving institution now lies in ruins, a shadow of its former self. The school’s infrastructure is dilapidated, classrooms are in a state of disrepair, and essential learning materials are conspicuously absent. This decline is a direct result of years of neglect and mismanagement.

Despite numerous budgetary allocations purportedly made for the maintenance and development of educational institutions in Edo State, Erah Grammar School has received none of these benefits. The school’s deterioration is not just a symbol of governmental neglect but also a betrayal of the trust placed in our leaders by the people of Erah and the wider Owan Nation.

THE IMPACT ON ERAH COMMUNITY
The consequences of this neglect are far-reaching and devastating. The children of Erah, who should be the primary beneficiaries of a functional and supportive educational system, are being deprived of their fundamental right to education. This situation has resulted in increased dropout rates, child labor, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness among the youth.

Without access to quality education, the children of Erah are denied the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty that has plagued the community for generations. The lack of a functional school means that the community cannot celebrate Children's Day with the joy and pride that other communities experience. Instead, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the government's failures and the bleak future facing Erah’s children.

A CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY
In light of these grave concerns, I challenge Governor Godwin Obaseki to provide a detailed account of the funds allocated for the maintenance and development of Erah Grammar School since he assumed office. The governor must explain why these funds have not been utilized to restore and maintain the school’s infrastructure. If Governor Obaseki claims ignorance of the school’s existence or its current deplorable state, it would be a glaring admission of his incompetence as a Governor. 

It is crucial for the people of Erah, the Owan Nation, and all citizens of Edo State to remain vigilant and hold their leaders accountable. The actions, or inactions, of Governor Obaseki and his administration must be scrutinized to ensure that the resources meant for the development of our communities are not misappropriated or wasted.

THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Education is universally acknowledged as a cornerstone of development. It is the foundation upon which individuals build their futures and communities achieve progress. For Erah, the decline of its grammar school has had a ripple effect on the entire community. The absence of a functional educational institution has stunted the community’s growth, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. 

Investing in education is not just about building schools; it is about fostering an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. It is about providing the resources and support necessary for students to reach their full potential. Without such investments, communities like Erah cannot hope to achieve sustainable development or improve their socio-economic conditions.

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
The restoration of Erah Grammar School should be a top priority for the Edo State government. This process should begin with an immediate assessment of the school’s current state and the formulation of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. This plan should include:

1. Infrastructure Development: Re-Construction, Repairing and upgrading the school’s physical infrastructure to provide a safe and conducive learning environment.   

2. Provision of Learning Materials: Ensuring that the school is equipped with the necessary textbooks, laboratory equipment, and other learning materials. 

3. Teacher Recruitment and Training: Hiring qualified teachers and providing them with ongoing professional development to ensure high teaching standards.

4. Extracurricular Programs: Reviving extracurricular activities to promote holistic education and talent development among students.

5. Community Engagement: Involving the local community in the school’s development to foster a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.

COMMUNITY ACTION AND SOLIDARITY
As we reflect on the current state of Erah Grammar School, it is imperative for the Erah people and the entire Owan Nation to unite in our resolve to demand better governance. We must distance ourselves from any entity or individual that does not have the best interests of our community at heart. The future of our children depends on our collective action today.

We must also engage with civil society organizations, educational stakeholders, and the broader Edo State community to advocate for the restoration of Erah Grammar School. By working together, we can create a powerful movement that compels the government to take immediate and decisive action.

CONCLUSION
The neglect of Erah Grammar School is a stark reminder of the consequences of poor governance and misplaced priorities. As we commemorate Children's Day, let us not just pay lip service to the ideals of child welfare and education. Instead, let us commit to concrete actions that will secure a brighter future for our children.

Governor Godwin Obaseki must take immediate steps to address the plight of Erah Grammar School. The people of Erah, the Owan Nation, and all citizens of Edo State must continue to demand accountability and transparency from Governor Godwin Obaseki. Only through collective effort and unwavering resolve can we restore the legacy of Late Prof. Ambrose Alli and ensure that Erah Grammar School once again becomes a beacon of hope and progress.

Let this Children's Day be a turning point in our struggle for quality education and better governance. The children of Erah deserve nothing less than our best efforts to secure their future.

Signed,
HON. COMRADE COMRADE FRED ENAIKHE ALEBURU
PRESIDENT,
OWAN GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NIGERIA (OGAN)
& 
FORMER CANDIDATE, 2023 EDO STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ELECTION,
OWAN EAST CONSTITUENCY, EDO STATE.