AN OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, ALHAJI AHMED USMAN ODODO, THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE
Through the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Kogi State
SAVE OKENE SECONDARY SCHOOL NOW: A PASSIONATE APPEAL TO STOP THE ENCROACHMENT OF GOVERNMENT SCHOOL LAND AND REBUILD A HISTORIC INSTITUTION
Your Excellency,
Education remains the foundation of every progressive society. A government that protects its schools is a government that protects the future of its children. It is in this spirit that we, the Management of Okene Secondary School, the Parent-Teachers Association (PTA), the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC), Old Students, and concerned citizens, respectfully bring this urgent matter to your attention.
Okene Secondary School is not merely a collection of buildings. It is a historic institution that has, for decades, nurtured generations of leaders, professionals, public servants, and responsible citizens who continue to contribute to the growth and development of Kogi State and Nigeria.
Today, however, this proud institution faces a serious threat. Portions of the school’s land are reportedly being encroached upon, putting valuable government property and the future expansion of the school at risk. If decisive action is not taken, this public asset may gradually be lost, depriving future generations of the space and facilities they deserve.
Beyond the issue of land encroachment, many of the school’s facilities require urgent government attention. Several classroom blocks have deteriorated with age, hostel facilities require rehabilitation, and the absence of a perimeter fence has left the school vulnerable to trespass and further encroachment.
Your Excellency, this is not merely the concern of one school. It is a matter of public interest. Government-owned educational institutions must be protected from unlawful occupation and preserved for the benefit of all.
We therefore respectfully appeal to your administration to:
- Direct the appropriate government agencies to investigate the reported encroachment and take all lawful steps necessary to protect the school’s land.
- Clearly identify, preserve, and secure the school’s boundaries.
- Approve the construction of a standard perimeter fence around the entire school premises.
- Rehabilitate the dilapidated classroom blocks to provide a safe and conducive learning environment.
- Renovate the hostel and other essential infrastructure to improve students’ welfare and strengthen academic excellence.
Your Excellency, history will remember leaders who protected public institutions and invested in the future of young people. Your administration has demonstrated commitment to improving education across Kogi State, and we are confident that this appeal will receive the urgent attention it deserves.
The people of Okene are not asking for special treatment. We are simply asking that a valuable government institution be protected, preserved, and restored to the standard befitting its proud legacy.
We therefore call on all relevant government agencies, community leaders, development partners, alumni, and well-meaning citizens to support this noble cause. The protection of Okene Secondary School is a shared responsibility.
May this appeal serve as a reminder that every school saved today is an investment in a stronger and more prosperous Kogi State tomorrow.
Please accept the assurances of our highest regards.
Signed:
Comrade Muhammed Yusuf Osana
Coordinator, Education Task Force, Kogi Central Chapter
For and on behalf of:
The Management, Okene Secondary School
Parent-Teachers Association (PTA)
School-Based Management Committee (SBMC)
Old Students Association
Concerned Citizens of Okene
“Save Our School, Protect Our Future.”
