The Catholic Bishop of Idah Diocese, Bishop Anthony Ademu Adaji, has criticised the Kogi State government for the deterioration of public primary and secondary schools, where students sit on bare floors to learn and write exams despite substantial monthly allocations.

Speaking at a Chrism Mass at Saint Boniface Cathedral, Idah, to commemorate the institution of the Catholic priesthood, Adaji accused the government of using propaganda to mask the crisis.

Adaji called out the lack of teachers and instructional materials, with some pupils studying under trees.

He urged Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to address the challenges, particularly in Kogi East, where he claimed less than 10% of public schools function. He stated, ?On a very serious note, you cannot get 5% functional public schools in Kogi East, yet billions of naira are budgeted for education year in, year out.?

The bishop described Kogi East?s schools as the worst affected among the state?s three senatorial districts, questioning, ?Is there still government in Kogi State?? He criticised the government for showcasing urban schools to misrepresent the dire conditions in rural areas, where most Kogites reside.

Adaji added, ?If you visit some government schools in Kogi East, if you are a lover of education, you will weep.?

Appealing to Ododo, Adaji said, ?As he has started the goodwill of paying regular salaries, he should also include education and infrastructure as part of his mandate.?

He stressed that education and infrastructure are vital for Kogi?s development and urged action before it?s too late. (Sunday Sun)

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