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February 14, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
A Benue State government official is facing mounting public backlash after allegations emerged that a private school in Makurdi, reportedly linked to him, has been operating with poor standards and endangering pupils’ education and welfare. The controversy has drawn criticism from parents, civil society groups, and education advocates, triggering questions about accountability and ethical conduct within public office.
Honourable Dennis Adamu, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Benue State, has been accused of running a school in Makurdi that allegedly falls far below acceptable educational and infrastructural standards. According to statements from aggrieved parents and watchdog groups, the institution reportedly established and managed by associates of the commissioner lacks adequate teaching resources, qualified staff, and proper learning facilities, raising concerns about the quality of education being offered to enrolled children.
Parents whose children attend the school say they were initially assured of a conducive learning environment and qualified teachers, but claim that reality has been very different. Some have described classrooms as overcrowded, teaching aides as insufficient or absent, and learning conditions as substandard even as fees and levies continue to be collected. The allegations suggest that officials with ties to the Commissioner have prioritized revenue over educational quality and pupil welfare.
Public reactions intensified on social media after affected parents shared testimonies and photos purportedly showing dilapidated classrooms and inadequate student support. Many critics questioned why an official responsible for social development would be associated with an education enterprise widely perceived as failing basic standards.
Civil society organisations in Benue State have also weighed in, urging a transparent investigation into the allegations. In a joint statement, a coalition of education advocates called on the state government to review the school’s operational licence, conduct an independent audit of its facilities, and ensure that pupils’ rights to quality education are safeguarded regardless of political connections.
Responding to the uproar, some community leaders have urged Honourable Adamu to clarify his involvement with the school and address the concerns raised by parents. Critics argue that public office should not be used to support or shield private interests, especially where children’s education and well-being are at stake. However, as of this report, Adamu himself has not issued a public statement addressing the allegations.
The developing situation spotlights broader challenges in Nigeria’s education sector, particularly in private institutions operating with limited oversight. It also raises ethical questions about the roles and responsibilities of public officials when they are associated with private ventures especially those involving services as foundational as schooling.
As calls for accountability grow louder, many stakeholders are watching to see whether authorities will take concrete steps to resolve the controversy and protect affected families in Makurdi.