Appeal Against Encroachment on GSS Ilorin Land

I am Ogundele Michael, an Old Boy of Government Secondary School (GSS) Ilorin, having graduated in the early 1970s. I write with deep concern and strong resentment over the recent, disheartening development involving the construction of a filling station on the land belonging to GSS Ilorin.

It is truly unfortunate that a school once regarded as the pride of the nation has been left vulnerable to neglect and various forms of encroachment by private individuals and organizations — often with the connivance or silent approval of the state government at different times.

While it is true that portions of the school’s land, including the current site in question, were reportedly sold off during a previous administration, I strongly believe there is nothing stopping the current government from righting such wrongs. Indeed, this administration has taken bold steps in other instances to correct the misdeeds of the past.

Although I commend the government for sealing off the ongoing project, I believe stronger sanctions are necessary. There have been precedents where Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) granted to individuals were revoked in the public interest. This case should not be an exception.

Government properties are meant for the public good. Allocating public school land — and for a filling station, no less — to private interests is not only absurd but unimaginable. It sends the wrong message about our values and priorities as a people.

I respectfully urge the present administration to write its name in gold by revoking the C of O of the said land and redirecting its use towards the betterment of the school. This land should be preserved, and the school upgraded to the “mega school” status, as many Old Boys and prominent citizens of Kwara State have advocated.

I must also commend the Kwara State Government for its efforts in reviving the standard of public education. The recent achievements — including the impressive victory of Kwara State public school students at the national presidential debate — are proof that such efforts are beginning to yield fruits.

GSS Ilorin must not be allowed to deteriorate or become a pawn in the hands of opposition critics. Rather, it should remain a symbol of excellence and pride for all.

I hope His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, will kindly heed this passionate appeal from a concerned Old Boy.

Yours sincerely,
Ogundele Michael
Old Boy, GSS Ilorin