Peter Obi to JAMB: Don’t Let System Failures Cost Students Their Future

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to urgently address the challenges confronting candidates attempting to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), warning that students must not bear the consequences of systemic inefficiencies.

Obi expressed concern after witnessing large crowds and reported confusion at JAMB’s office in Amawbia, Anambra State, noting that similar complaints have emerged from various parts of the country.

He linked the development to the recent proscription of several Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres over alleged infractions, a move that has reportedly increased pressure on available registration facilities.

While acknowledging JAMB’s authority to discipline centres found culpable of misconduct, Obi urged the examination body to adopt what he described as a more balanced and humane approach.

He suggested that centres currently under investigation could be permitted to operate on a restricted basis under strict supervision, in order to minimise disruption to candidates.

The former governor further recommended that where the approval of new CBT centres may be delayed, JAMB could temporarily deploy previously accredited facilities under enhanced monitoring to ease congestion at state offices.

He warned that with the registration deadline approaching, many candidates some travelling long distances and incurring additional expenses risk being excluded through no fault of their own.

Obi stressed the broader implications of the situation, cautioning that administrative bottlenecks should not be allowed to jeopardise the academic aspirations of young Nigerians.

He emphasised that students must not be made to suffer the consequences of institutional shortcomings, calling for swift and compassionate intervention by the examination body.