A storm of corruption allegations has erupted at the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) as furious contractors accuse top officials — including close aides to Chairman Hon. Samuel Mariere — of running a brazen bribery racket that is bleeding school projects dry.
According to multiple whistleblowers, principal officers in the Department of Planning, Research and Statistics (DPRS) are allegedly demanding 5% to 20% “returns” on every contract, cash that must be paid before a project is awarded or at key stages of execution.
The alleged kingpins? Engr. Sylvester Etetafia and Antonia Krenyo, Mariere’s own personal secretary — accused of operating with impunity under the Chairman’s watch.
“From the moment you seek a job until you get your completion certificate, they squeeze you for money,” one enraged contractor told reporters. “Governor Oborevwori insists on quality work, but these deductions destroy our capacity to meet the standards.”
Sources claim Mariere is “fully aware” of the racket, with his secretary allegedly collecting the cash on his behalf. Attempts to confront the accused officers failed, while the Chairman flatly refused to comment when approached.
Critics warn the alleged scam is leaving Delta’s schools starved of quality infrastructure, trapping pupils in dilapidated classrooms while millions are diverted into private pockets.
“Until this cartel is dismantled, our children will keep learning in ruins,” a contractor fumed.
The scandal has sent shockwaves through Delta’s education sector, with calls mounting for urgent government intervention and a probe into SUBEB’s leadership.