KEY POINTS

• PDP calls APC’s N3.5 billion ($2.19 million) school fund a “Greek gift.”
• APC defends the release, emphasizing its commitment to education.
• Both parties are using the education sector to appeal to voters before the election.

Ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, tensions between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have intensified. Both parties have clashed over the recent release of N3.5 billion ($2.19 million) for the renovation of public schools in the state.

PDP labels the fund as a “Greek Gift”

The state’s PDP Publicity Secretary, Kennedy Peretei, criticized the timing of the fund’s release, labeling it as a “Greek gift” aimed at winning support for the APC just six weeks before the elections.

He urged citizens not to fall for the perceived tactics of deception by the ruling party, pointing out the lack of urgency during the school holiday period when renovations could have been conducted.

Peretei questioned the sincerity behind the renovation funds, arguing, “The state government had two months to begin renovations, but they waited until schools resumed.”

He also raised concerns about the high number of out-of-school children, estimated to be around 240,000, and potentially increasing due to economic policies implemented by the APC at both the federal and state levels.

The PDP spokesperson further criticized the lack of support for parents struggling to pay tuition fees and the government’s failure to pay for the West African Examinations Council registration, leaving many students without their results.

According to Vanguard, he urged the people of Ondo State to remain firm in choosing leaders that would genuinely address their concerns.

APC defends its record in education

In response, APC’s state Publicity Secretary, Alex Kalejaye, defended the release of N3.5 billion, stating that the party was committed to prioritizing the development of the education sector. Kalejaye emphasized that primary education serves as the foundation for future success in higher education.

He said, “A solid foundation in primary education will guarantee quality outcomes in higher institutions.”

Kalejaye acknowledged the challenges faced by public schools, especially primary schools, noting that pupils in many areas are still learning in dilapidated buildings due to years of neglect. He reiterated that the renovation project was aimed at creating better learning environments for the children and improving the state’s education sector.

The clash between the APC and PDP underscores the broader political debate on education in Ondo State, with both parties using the issue to sway voters ahead of the November elections.