South-East Lawmakers Demand JAMB Boss Oloyede’s Resignation over 2025 UTME Controversy

A group of lawmakers from the South-East region of Nigeria has called for the resignation of Professor Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), following widespread complaints and irregularities during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Their demand stems from what they described as a failed examination process that left thousands of candidates frustrated, with many alleging technical hitches, wrong results, and mismanagement.

Mounting Frustrations Among Candidates

The 2025 UTME, which is a vital exam for gaining admission into Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions, was marred by multiple challenges. Across various centers, candidates reported issues such as system malfunctions, delays, abrupt power failures, and even cases of being logged out before completing their exams.

These irregularities caused significant distress for both candidates and their families, many of whom had spent months preparing for this crucial academic test.

Lawmakers Voice Their Concerns

Representatives from the South-East region expressed deep dissatisfaction with how the exam process was handled this year. In a joint statement, they described the 2025 UTME as a national embarrassment and urged Professor Oloyede to take full responsibility by stepping down.

According to the lawmakers, the recurring issues with JAMB’s computer-based testing (CBT) model suggest systemic failure under the current leadership, which they argue has become a burden on the hopes and futures of Nigerian students.

Accusations of Negligence and Poor Oversight

The legislators also accused the JAMB leadership of ignoring early warning signs, including reports of faulty equipment and poorly maintained centers. They emphasized that such carelessness has serious implications on the future of young Nigerians, many of whom are depending on their UTME scores to secure university admission.

In addition, they noted that JAMB’s refusal to accept responsibility and its attempts to blame candidates and parents only fueled public anger.

Reactions from Parents and Civil Groups

Several parents and educational advocacy groups have supported the lawmakers’ call, insisting that students should not be punished for what they describe as institutional failure. Many parents have demanded that affected students be allowed a free re-sit of the exam or have their results reviewed transparently.

Civil society organizations have also asked the Federal Government to investigate the 2025 UTME conduct thoroughly and implement immediate reforms.

JAMB’s Response So Far

In response to the backlash, JAMB issued a statement acknowledging some technical difficulties but insisted that the overall process was successful. The board maintained that only a small percentage of candidates were affected and that efforts were ongoing to rectify the situation.

However, critics argue that this response is not good enough, especially considering the scale of the issues reported nationwide.

Demands for Reform

Beyond the call for Oloyede’s resignation, lawmakers and education stakeholders are now pushing for a complete overhaul of JAMB’s operational system. Suggestions include decentralizing the exam, improving infrastructure at test centers, and introducing better monitoring systems to avoid future mishaps.

There is also growing interest in exploring alternative testing methods that do not depend solely on unreliable technology.

Looking Ahead

As pressure mounts, the Federal Government may be forced to intervene to restore public confidence in JAMB and the UTME process. What happens next could shape the future of standardized testing in Nigeria and determine how education authorities handle accountability going forward.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 UTME saga has reignited an important conversation about the reliability of Nigeria’s educational institutions and the need for transparency, fairness, and improved systems. Whether or not Oloyede steps down, the calls for change cannot be ignored.

Written By Fortune Davidson