A newly completed Smart Green School constructed by the Enugu State Government in Ishielu Amagunze, located in Nkanu East Local Government Area, has been severely damaged after a windstorm ripped off the roof of the one-storey building. The development has sparked renewed concerns about construction standards and the management of public funds tied to the multibillion-naira education initiative.
A video obtained on Saturday shows extensive damage to the facility, with the roof completely blown away and debris, including wooden frames and roofing sheets, scattered around the premises. The school had reportedly already been completed and put into use before the incident occurred. Voices captured in the footage expressed relief that pupils were not present at the time, noting that the situation could have resulted in a serious tragedy.
Residents and observers questioned the quality of the project, pointing to possible structural deficiencies and poor execution. Some critics argued that if similar projects in other communities, such as Awkpufu, were inspected, further concerns might emerge about contractor selection and project standards.
Notably, this is not the first time a Smart School project in the state has come under scrutiny due to structural failure. Observers recall that similar incidents of building collapse or damage were reported in July and October 2025, raising persistent concerns about construction quality and oversight across multiple project sites.
The incident has reignited public debate over allegations of substandard construction, inflated contracts, and possible mismanagement linked to the Smart School programme. The administration of Peter Mbah has consistently positioned education as a key priority, committing significant resources to the initiative across the state.
According to the 2026 budget proposal, the government plans to spend ₦158 billion on 16 Smart Senior Secondary Schools. The destruction of a newly completed building under such a large-scale investment has intensified calls for accountability. Many residents argue that projects funded with such substantial public resources should meet basic engineering standards capable of withstanding common weather conditions. Experts also note that while windstorms are not unusual in the region, well-designed structures should not experience such severe damage shortly after completion.
As of the time of reporting, the Enugu State Government has not released an official statement explaining the cause of the failure or outlining any investigative steps. Civil society organisations and concerned citizens are now urging an independent technical audit of Smart School projects statewide to evaluate construction quality, contractor performance, and overall value for money.
For residents of Ishielu Amagunze, the incident has shifted focus from the ambition behind the policy to the realities of its implementation, with many emphasizing that while investment in education is vital, the safety of students must remain paramount.
