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A fierce dispute has broken out over the future of Federal Government College (FGC) Kano, escalating into a legal and political confrontation.
At the centre is a controversial Public-Private Partnership (PPP) that transfers about 33 hectares, nearly 40 per cent of the school’s land, to Pluck Global Construction Company.
While government officials describe the deal as a strategic effort to upgrade ageing facilities, the school’s alumni association (FGCKOSA) has condemned it as a coordinated contract scam and a threat to student safety and the institution’s future.
The financial structure of the land-swap arrangement has triggered strong backlash. FGCKOSA claims the land being ceded is worth more than N36 billion.
In return, the developer is expected to deliver infrastructure, including a sports complex, health centre, and classroom renovations, valued at N8.5 billion.
Critics argue that the imbalance effectively transfers over N28 billion in value to private interests at the expense of the Nigerian government.
Some whistleblowers have reportedly suggested that the land could be worth over N70 billion, raising concerns that it is being relinquished far below its actual value.
The controversy has widened with allegations of corruption involving the Federal Ministry of Education.
FGCKOSA leaders have accused senior officials, including Suwaiba Said Ahmad, of having vested interests in the deal.
Attention has also turned to the developer’s leadership. Musaddiq Ado Bala Talle, Managing Director of Pluck Global, is reportedly linked to influential regional political figures, reinforcing claims that the transaction is driven by political patronage rather than public interest.
Beyond the financial concerns, stakeholders warn of serious risks to student welfare.
The introduction of a private residential estate within the school grounds would merge a secure boarding environment with a public commercial space, exposing students to avoidable security risks.
The affected land includes key sports fields and open spaces vital for physical and mental development. Alumni also say the project encroaches on the school mosque and chapel, facilities central to the spiritual life of the Unity School.
The dispute is now before the courts. A Federal High Court has reportedly ordered all parties to maintain the status quo, halting further construction on the land.
However, alumni allege that ministry officials have encouraged continued activity at the site despite the court order.
FGCKOSA President Shoyinka Shodunke has stated that the association is pursuing full legal action.
Petitions have already been filed with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, while a formal complaint has been sent to Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The petition is co-signed by prominent alumni, including Abdul Samad Rabiu, and calls for the immediate cancellation of the agreement.
The alumni association has also issued a clear warning to the public. It maintains that any land acquired under the arrangement is subject to legal dispute and should be treated with caution.
