The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle E. Emelah, has issued a formal response to viral images circulating online showing the dilapidated state of Community Primary School, Swali.
The statement, released on June 11, 2025, aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the condition of the school and outline the government’s ongoing response.
According to Dr. Emelah, the school was previously equipped by the Bayelsa State Government with modern facilities. These included computer sets, a power generating set, and a smart classroom to promote a conducive learning environment. However, the facility became the target of repeated vandalism beginning in 2023, with hoodlums allegedly stealing essential infrastructure such as aluminum roofing sheets, burglary protections, furniture, and windows.
In an attempt to protect the school, the state government engaged four security personnel based on the recommendation of the Swali community leadership. Despite this measure, the facility continued to suffer from intrusions and theft. The commissioner stated that arrests were eventually made after investigations revealed the involvement of one of the hired security guards in the ongoing looting.
The suspects, including the implicated security guard, were charged and the case remains under judicial review as of the time of the statement. While awaiting comprehensive renovations, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has provided interim support to the school by supplying new furniture. These are currently in use by pupils and staff at the facility.
Dr. Emelah emphasized the importance of community participation in safeguarding public infrastructure. He noted that government resources are limited compared to the wide array of development needs across the state. He called on all communities to take greater ownership of state-funded projects to prevent such costly losses and setbacks.
The Commissioner underscored the efforts of the current administration led by Governor Douye Diri, highlighting the government’s commitment to infrastructural development in education. He pointed to the administration’s consistent efforts to construct new school buildings and rehabilitate existing ones across Bayelsa State.
As part of these efforts, Community Primary School Swali has now been included in the list of schools slated for direct intervention by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC). Renovation work is expected to commence soon under the supervision of SUBEB, with the aim of restoring the school to its previously functional condition.
The press release concluded by reiterating the government’s resolve to continue spreading educational development throughout the state. It called for unity and collaboration among citizens, government officials, and community leaders to safeguard educational investments and ensure that the younger generation has access to quality learning environments.
The statement was signed by Onisoman Kos-Ikah, Media Assistant to the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Bayelsa State.
