Ogun Govt, ADC Trade Blame Over Approval Rule for School Donations
The Ogun State Government and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have locked horns over a new directive requiring private donors to secure approval before executing projects in public primary schools.
The memo, issued by the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) on September 15, 2025, has drawn backlash from the ADC, which accused the government of discouraging support for basic education.
ADC State Chairman, Otunba Femi Soluade, criticised the Dapo Abiodun administration, describing the directive as an attempt to “kill basic education” and frustrate well-meaning interventions. He argued that the policy contradicts provisions of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004, and the Child Rights Act, 2003, which allow schools to receive donations from individuals and organisations.
Soluade further lamented the poor condition of public primary schools, alleging that some pupils carry desks and chairs to school daily due to inadequate facilities. He accused the government of politicising education and jeopardising children’s future.
In response, the government dismissed ADC’s claims as baseless and politically motivated. Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said the policy was aimed at ensuring coordination, not blocking development.
“The Ogun State Government welcomes philanthropic support, but no one has the right to execute projects in government schools without consulting SUBEB. That is the law. Once intentions are genuine, approval will never be denied,” Akinmade explained.
He added that the measure was necessary to prevent haphazard projects driven by political motives, accusing the ADC of seeking cheap publicity and attempting to mislead the public.
