Fountain School Defeats Silverbird International to Advance in 'I Beg to Differ' National Finals

Fountain School has defeated Silverbird International School in a debate on local government autonomy to secure qualification for the knockout stages of the I Beg to Differ Season 9 National Finals.

The Abuja-based school recorded 79.3 points against Silverbird International’s 67.2 on Tuesday, Day Six of the national finals. 

The result moved Fountain School to the top of Group D and extended its unbeaten run in the competition.

Both teams debated the motion: “Local Governments Deserve Greater Autonomy.”

Representing Silverbird International School, Emmanuela John Bull and Sonia Chisom argued in favour of greater autonomy for local governments, saying councils are better positioned to identify and respond to challenges within their communities.

John Bull highlighted the responsibilities already assigned to local governments, including primary healthcare, local roads, markets and sanitation, arguing that councils require the authority and resources to effectively deliver on those duties.

The Port Harcourt-based team also argued that excessive central control over finances and administration delays the delivery of essential services, particularly in rural communities.

Fountain School, represented by Uche Anigo and Esther Ojotule Abah, opposed greater autonomy under the current conditions, arguing that transferring more financial and political powers without addressing institutional weaknesses could create further governance challenges.

The Abuja team raised concerns about weak internally generated revenue, low voter participation in local elections and inadequate accountability mechanisms, saying local governments must first improve their capacity and credibility before receiving broader powers.

Fountain School also argued that reforms in transparency, accountability and governance structures should come before granting unconditional autonomy to local councils.

The adjudication panel awarded Fountain School 72 points out of 90, compared with 64.5 points for Silverbird International.

In the live public vote, Fountain School received 73 per cent of the votes, while Silverbird International got 27 per cent.

The combined scores gave Fountain School a final tally of 79.3 points, with Silverbird International finishing on 67.2 points.

The victory secures Fountain School’s place in the knockout stages and keeps the Abuja school at the top of Group D as the national finals progress.