The Cross River State Government’s claim that over ₦17 billion was invested in basic education interventions between 2023 and 2025 has triggered mixed reactions among residents, with many calling for transparency and evidence of the projects executed across the state.
Commissioner for Education, Stephen Adi Odey, had disclosed during a press briefing in Calabar that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu constructed 149 new classrooms, rehabilitated 50 classroom blocks, provided 30 boreholes and supplied 23,461 customised school furniture across the 18 local government areas between 2023 and 2025.
However, the announcement has generated criticism from some Cross Riverians who questioned the timing and accuracy of the figures, describing the statement as an attempt at “damage control” following recent reports and assessments that placed the state’s education and healthcare sectors among areas requiring urgent improvement.
Some residents demanded that the government provide locations and details of the projects, insisting that physical evidence should accompany the figures presented by the ministry.
“₦17 billion what? Where are the schools where those classrooms were built located? This government has done nothing in the past three years except collect money from poor indigenes,” one resident said.
Another critic questioned the distribution of the projects, calling on the commissioner to provide details of schools, local government areas and wards that benefited from the interventions.
“Mention the schools affected in each senatorial district, local government and wards. Cross Riverians need accountability,” the resident stated.
Others accused the administration of relying more on announcements than visible development, alleging that the education sector has not experienced the level of transformation expected despite the claimed investments.
“I don’t know why the governor surrounded himself with failures. They have turned this government like the previous administration — only talk, no working,” another commenter wrote.
Some reactions also targeted the commissioner’s role, with critics questioning whether the ministry has delivered enough impact on the ground.
“What do you expect from a hold brief Senator that turned commissioner?” one resident asked.
Despite the criticisms, the state government maintains that the interventions represent significant progress in improving learning environments and supporting basic education infrastructure.
Many Cross Riverians have now called for a detailed breakdown of the ₦17 billion expenditure, including project locations, contractors, timelines and measurable outcomes, arguing that public funds require clear accountability beyond official statements.
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