By Our Correspondent
The Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) is under a cloud of controversy as contractors handling school projects allege widespread bribery and extortion involving senior officials — with fingers pointed directly at the Board’s Chairman, Hon. Samuel Mariere.
Multiple contractors, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused top staff of the Department of Planning, Research and Statistics (DPRS) of demanding kickbacks ranging from 5% to 20% of contract sums — either before award or during project execution — crippling their ability to deliver jobs to standard.
“The exploitation starts from when you apply for the job, through the construction phase, and even before completion certificates are issued,” one contractor lamented. “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori pays strictly according to work done, but these illegal deductions make it hard to meet specifications.”
The Chairman’s personal secretary, Antonia Krenyo, and a senior DPRS officer, Engr. Sylvester Etetafia, were named as central players in the alleged scheme. Contractors claim both operate with impunity, reportedly shielded by their proximity to the Chairman.
“Mariere is very much aware — his secretary is part of the collection system,” another source alleged.
Repeated attempts to obtain comments from the accused officers were rebuffed, while Mariere declined to respond when approached.
Education stakeholders warn that unless the alleged rot is addressed, the state’s already fragile basic education infrastructure will continue to suffer, denying pupils the learning environment they deserve.
