A civil society organisation, MonITNG, has raised alarm over the deplorable condition of Gaba LEA Primary School in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, a school that has existed since 1976 but now suffers from severe neglect.

In a statement released by the group, MonITNG revealed that the school lacks even the most basic infrastructure, significantly hindering pupils’ access to quality education.

According to the organisation, Gaba LEA Primary School has no headteacher’s office, no perimeter fencing, and severely overcrowded classrooms with leaking roofs. The school also lacks sufficient toilet facilities, exposing pupils—particularly girls—to health risks and serious safety concerns.

“When it rains, classes halt. Pupils shift desks to dodge water dripping from gaping holes in the roof. Some sit on broken benches. Others on the floor. The school has no fence, exposing children to risks and distractions,” the statement read.

MonITNG further stressed that poor sanitation remains a critical issue. “Toilets are either too few or in such poor condition that some pupils, especially girls, stay home on critical days,” it noted.

The organisation also highlighted the absence of a headteacher’s office, forcing administrative duties to be conducted in makeshift locations or even under trees. This, they said, amounts to “a daily struggle to maintain dignity in the face of dysfunction.”

The group questioned the priorities of the government, particularly in light of recent comments by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who claimed that 60 schools had been renovated under his administration.

MonITNG expressed concern that while grand renovation projects are being publicized, schools like Gaba LEA remain in decay and danger.

The CSO also cited reports of unutilised funds, including over ₦250 billion earmarked for basic education across the 36 states and the FCT, which remain idle due to bureaucratic inertia.

MonITNG appealed to Minister Wike and FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe to urgently prioritise the renovation and upgrade of public schools in underserved communities, starting with Gaba LEA Primary School.