The Senate on Thursday set up an ad hoc committee to probe the troubled Safe School Initiative, expressing frustration that Nigerian schools remain vulnerable to violent attacks despite what lawmakers described as “huge and continuous budgetary commitments” to the programme.
Announcing the committee, Senate President Godswill Akpabio named Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as chairman, with Senators Tony Nwoye, Yemi Adaramodu, Harry Ipalibo, Ede Dafinone, Mustapha Saliu, Diket Plang, Binus Yaroe, Kaka Shehu, Musa Garba Maidoki and other lawmakers serving as members.
Its establishment followed a resolution by the Senate calling for a comprehensive probe into the initiative, after lawmakers raised questions about the utilisation of funds earmarked to secure schools nationwide.
The urgency of the investigation was underscored by the recent attack on Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, where gunmen killed the vice principal and reportedly abducted 25 students.
Several senators decried the incident as further evidence that the Safe School Initiative has failed to achieve its objectives.
The debate preceding the formation of the committee gained momentum following additional prayers moved by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, which broadened the scope of the inquiry.
The ad hoc committee is expected to conduct a detailed investigation and submit its report to the Senate within four weeks.
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