Abia State Governor Alex Otti has proposed a staggering N29.5 billion for the construction of perimeter fences around public schools in the 2025 budget.
The announcement came on Tuesday during the presentation of a record-breaking N750 billion budget to the state House of Assembly.
This proposal has triggered mixed reactions, with many questioning the priorities of the administration amid widespread poverty and infrastructure decay.
Governor Otti stated that the fencing project is part of efforts to improve the safety of pupils, students, and their teachers in the state.
He emphasised that the measure would deter criminal activities and prevent land-grabbing by unscrupulous individuals.
“In keeping with our determination to make the learning environment safe for our pupils and teachers, we have earmarked N29.5 billion for constructing perimeter fencing in 262 schools across the state,” Otti said.
The 2025 budget, which marks a 30% increase from the N523 billion approved for 2024, allocates 82% of its funds to capital expenditure and 18% to recurrent expenditure.
Budget Priorities Questioned
While Governor Otti’s intentions may seem noble, critics argue that the allocation for fencing raises questions about the government’s priorities.
In February, a National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report revealed that 30% of Abia State residents live in multidimensional poverty.
Critics have pointed out that such a high percentage of people living in poverty should shift the focus of government spending to poverty alleviation and critical infrastructure.
A resident from Aba, who preferred anonymity, said, “How can you fence schools when children go hungry? This government seems out of touch with the realities on the ground.”
Past Controversies in Budgeting
This is not the first time Otti’s administration has been criticized over its budgetary decisions.
Earlier this year, his 2024 budget came under fire after it was revealed that N1.5 billion was allocated for the purchase of two Toyota Hilux vehicles.
Although the governor claimed the allocation was due to a “software glitch,” the explanation did little to quell public outrage.
Further analysis of the 2024 budget exposed lavish allocations, including N5.8 billion for purchasing cars for the governor, commissioners, judiciary officials, and other government agencies.
Residents have also expressed frustration over the government’s failure to address more pressing issues, such as dilapidated roads and flooding in Aba, the state’s commercial hub.
One business owner at the Nkwo Ngwa market lamented, “Instead of fixing our roads, the governor spends billions on flashy cars and now wants to fence schools. We are tired of empty promises.”
A Balancing Act or Misplaced Priorities?
Governor Otti’s administration has repeatedly claimed its commitment to repositioning Abia State and reducing poverty.
However, skeptics argue that the budget allocations suggest otherwise.
The N29.5 billion earmarked for fencing represents just a fraction of the total capital expenditure of N611.7 billion, but it has drawn significant attention due to the state’s lingering challenges.
A public policy analyst, Emeka Nwosu, commented, “While safety in schools is important, it should not come at the expense of other critical areas like healthcare, roads, and poverty reduction.”
Defending the Budget
Supporters of the governor argue that the school fencing project is a long-term investment in education and security.
“School safety is non-negotiable,” said Chinyere Okoro, a local education advocate. “If the fences prevent just one tragedy or protect school lands, the investment will be worth it.”
Governor Otti also defended the overall increase in the budget, claiming that it reflects his administration’s ambition to transform Abia State.
“This budget is a testament to our vision for a greater Abia. We are taking bold steps to address security, education, and infrastructure,” he said during his budget presentation.
