Reports emerging from Afikpo on Wednesday indicate that the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has deregistered Ohabuike Secondary School, Ndibe-Afikpo, over the school’s deteriorating condition and its inability to provide the functional laboratory facilities required for teaching and examinations.
The development has sparked fresh concerns about the state of public secondary education in Ebonyi State, with stakeholders warning that many schools across the state are facing similar challenges.
According to reports, the current condition of Ohabuike Secondary School reflects years of neglect, with the institution described as a shadow of what a standard educational facility should be. Observers say the absence of adequate infrastructure and essential learning facilities contributed to WAEC’s decision to withdraw the school’s accreditation.
A similar situation is said to exist at Community Secondary School, Nkalagu, in Ishielu Local Government Area, where inadequate facilities have also raised questions about the quality of education available to students.
Education advocates argue that the problem extends beyond a few isolated schools, claiming that many public secondary schools across Ebonyi State are neither fully functional, habitable, nor approved by WAEC. Despite these shortcomings, the schools remain the only accessible option for many families seeking secondary education and examination opportunities for their children.
Concerned residents have linked the decline in educational infrastructure to the increasing number of out-of-school children and teenagers in the state. They warn that limited access to quality education leaves many young people vulnerable to street hawking, child marriage, early parenthood, and other social challenges.
Critics have also called on government authorities to prioritize investment in education and other essential public services. They argue that strengthening schools, healthcare facilities, and social infrastructure should remain central to governance and development efforts.
They further noted that the quality of leadership is often measured by its commitment to improving education, healthcare, and other critical sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens.
Observers warn that the continued deterioration of public schools could have long-term consequences for the state’s development, including security concerns, reduced educational attainment, and limited opportunities for future generations.
The Ebonyi State Government has yet to officially respond to the reports regarding the deregistration of Ohabuike Secondary School by WAEC.
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