Moses Paul, the chairmanship candidate of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has defended former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s criticism of the deplorable condition of public primary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In an interview on Arise Television, Paul stated that exposing the poor state of public schools is not an attack on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Paul clarified that public primary schools, local hospitals, and sanitation fall under the jurisdiction of the AMAC Chairman, not the FCT Minister. He emphasized that he has been involved in community development initiatives in these institutions for a long time and has previously taken Obi to schools and healthcare facilities to support their development.

Obi’s criticism came after he visited the LEA Primary School in Kapwa, Abuja, where he was shocked to find classrooms without basic amenities such as chairs or toilets. He described the situation as a national disgrace that highlights Nigeria’s lack of commitment to education. Paul’s comment suggests that the issue is a local governance matter, rather than a federal one.

The condition of public schools in the FCT has sparked concern among citizens, with many calling for improved funding and infrastructure. The FCT Minister has faced criticism for the state of public services in the capital city. Paul’s statement emphasizes the need for clarity on the roles and responsibilities of local and federal authorities in addressing these issues.

The debate over the state of public schools in the FCT is likely to continue, with many stakeholders calling for urgent action to address the problems facing the education sector. As the council election approaches, the issue is expected to feature prominently in campaign discussions, with candidates outlining their plans to improve public services and infrastructure in the FCT.