Reports Say Multiple Schools Construction Sites Have Been abandoned For Months, Raising Questions Over Accountability
A contractor handling the construction of 60 legacy schools in Taraba State has allegedly abandoned the project despite reportedly receiving ₦16 billion from the state government under Governor Agbu Kefas, Sahara Reporters has revealed.
According to the report, the company — Prezzo Shield Investment Nigeria Limited — was awarded the contract as part of the Taraba State Government’s ambitious education reform programme aimed at improving access to quality learning infrastructure across the state.
However, investigations show that construction activities at several project sites have stalled, with many locations reportedly left unattended for over five months.
Findings indicate that many of the schools are at various stages of incompletion, with some having only foundations laid, while others lack roofing, doors, windows, or finishing works.
Artisans, labourers, and local suppliers engaged for the project reportedly complain of unpaid wages, leading to the disengagement of workers and total abandonment of several sites.
Residents in affected communities expressed disappointment, noting that the project initially raised hopes for improved education facilities before work abruptly stopped.
The alleged payment of ₦16 billion to the contractor has sparked serious public concern, with calls for transparency and accountability from the Taraba State Government.
Sources cited by Sahara Reporters claim that despite the huge financial commitment, there is little to show on ground, prompting questions over project monitoring, fund utilization, and contract enforcement.
Efforts by Sahara Reporters to obtain an official response from the Taraba State Government regarding the abandoned projects were reportedly unsuccessful as of the time of filing the report.
The “60 Legacy Schools” initiative was a flagship education project under Governor Kefas’ administration, aligned with the state’s free education policy.
Civil society groups and concerned citizens are now calling on anti-corruption agencies to investigate the alleged abandonment, ensure recovery of public funds if misappropriation is established, and compel the completion of the schools.
As the controversy grows, residents say the future of education in the affected communities hangs in the balance.
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