The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has welcomed the Senate’s decision to investigate allegations of admission racketeering in Nigerian universities. The exam body sees this as an opportunity to address concerns and vindicate its integrity in the face of accusations related to admission malpractices.
Background:
The Senate’s decision to investigate admission racketeering came after a motion moved by Onyeka Nwebonyi of Ebonyi North, who cited the admission challenges faced by a candidate at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). The motion alleged collusion between university staff and JAMB officials in carrying out unwholesome practices.
JAMB’s Response:
JAMB’s registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, expressed gratitude for the Senate’s decision during the Customer Service Week in Abuja. He acknowledged that while negative allegations were brought forward, the Senate President recognized JAMB’s integrity and ensured a fair hearing. Oloyede emphasized the importance of appreciating the Senate’s wise counsel.
Clarification of the Allegations:
Mr. Oloyede clarified the major issues in the allegations, focusing on a specific candidate who applied to study medicine and surgery at UNN. Despite scoring 291 in the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and being ranked 241st in the university’s medical program, the institution proposed a change to medical laboratory science. The registrar revealed that the university admitted candidates “under the table,” violating procedures, and expressed gratitude for the Senate’s call for an investigation.
JAMB’s Stand:
The JAMB boss reassured the public that the board and its staff would cooperate fully with the Senate’s investigation. He explained that if the candidate had a letter of provisional admission, it did not originate from JAMB. Mr. Oloyede welcomed the Senate’s wise counsel and expressed confidence that JAMB’s commitment to fairness and equity would be evident during the investigation.
Conclusion:
As JAMB prepares to undergo scrutiny regarding admission processes, the Senate’s decision is viewed as an opportunity to address concerns and ensure transparency in the admission system. JAMB remains committed to its mandate of facilitating fair and merit-based admissions, and the investigation provides a platform to uphold the integrity of the examination body in the public eye.
