How reforms are uncovering corruption in Benue’s education sector

The Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has implemented far-reaching reforms aimed at revamping the board for effective and quality education delivery especially for the children of the poor. These reforms are, however, exposing the corruption that hitherto reign supreme in the Benue primary education sector, as the beneficiaries of the old system now […]

The Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has implemented far-reaching reforms aimed at revamping the board for effective and quality education delivery especially for the children of the poor. These reforms are, however, exposing the corruption that hitherto reign supreme in the Benue primary education sector, as the beneficiaries of the old system now putting up strong resistance.

In Benue State, the education system is undergoing a transformation, driven by reforms intended to tackle long-standing corruption and make public schools as competitive as their private counterparts. At the centre of this effort is Dr Grace Adagba, the newly appointed Executive Chairman of SUBEB, whose tenure has been marked by decisive action to close financial loopholes and improve transparency.

Systemic Corruption: A Tradition Disrupted
For years, a network of politicians and civil servants have exploited loopholes within the system to siphon millions of naira. They achieved this through dubious contracts and unauthorised salary deductions from underpaid teachers in rural areas. Under Dr Adagba’s leadership, however, these schemes are being dismantled.

One of the most significant reforms is the introduction of an e-payment system for teachers’ salaries, staff verification and an automated staff management system which have put to rest issues of ghost teachers with verified teachers now have identity cards with clear verification numbers.

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Following these reforms, teachers now receive their pay directly and without delay. This system has effectively shut down opportunities for manipulation and fraud.

Resistance to Change: A Corrupt System Fights Back
However, SUBEB’s efforts have not gone unchallenged. Those who previously benefited from the corrupt practices have launched targeted attacks against Dr Adagba, using both the media and political pressure to undermine her efforts.

Mr. Vitalis Shagba a teacher in one of the primary schools in the state acknowledged that the attacks are attempts to destabilise the reforms. “They want to maintain the status quo, but Dr Adagba is committed to transparency. The arbitrary deductions from teachers’ salaries have stopped, and arrears are being paid. Her leadership is bringing hope to teachers across Benue,” Shagba said.

The State Chairman of the NUT, Comrade Akuma Levi Terna, said that the introduction of accountability measures such as audit reviews and transparent loan management has restored order to the system. “Today, teachers receive pay slips and know exactly where their money goes. The days of unexplained deductions are over,” Terna said.

Sponsored Media Campaign: A Battle of Narratives
The reform efforts at SUBEB have also attracted negative media attention. One such attack is a story accusing Dr Adagba of misappropriating N2.7 billion in fake contracts. The report accused her of being a “thief” without providing evidence.

The writer is no stranger to controversy. He has previously published libellous material targeting prominent figures in Benue State, including former Governor Samuel Ortom. In 2017, a Makurdi High Court ordered him to pay damages to Ortom for false publications, but the publisher has continued his attacks on local figures, seemingly undeterred by legal repercussions.

The Truth Behind the Allegations
An inside source at SUBEB, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the issue debunked the writer’s claims, revealing that the board had not even awarded any contracts during the period in question.

“We are still in the process of evaluating bids for school renovations and construction. The claims of a N2.7 billion misappropriation are completely unfounded,” the source said.

The open bidding process, which is part of Dr Adagba’s reforms, marks a departure from the opaque contracting methods that allowed corrupt officials to enrich themselves at the expense of public education.

A Legacy of Change
Despite the backlash, Dr Adagba remains focused on leaving a lasting impact on Benue’s education system. Plans are underway to revive Early Child Care Development Education (ECCDE) programs in public schools, which will ensure that children from underprivileged backgrounds receive a strong educational foundation.

Public analyst Mr Terna Iortim summed up the situation: “The pushback against Dr. Adagba is expected. People resist change when their interests are threatened. But the people of Benue have seen real progress, and they won’t be easily swayed by propaganda. These reforms are laying the foundation for a better future.”

As SUBEB continues its efforts, the reforms are poised to transform the educational landscape in Benue State — one that is transparent, accountable, and designed to serve the people, not the corrupt few.

 

By Maigida Facii