Say admission, show of exemplary accountability
…JAMB will emerge stronger and more credible
As controversy trails the recent technical glitch that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), two major Muslim organizations—the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) and the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA)—have come forward in staunch defense of the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, praising his leadership, sincerity, and swift action during the unfolding crisis.
In their own statement, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) extended heartfelt condolences to the thousands of students and families affected by the disruption that occurred during the Computer-Based Test (CBT).
“This unfortunate incident has undoubtedly caused significant distress, anxiety, and uncertainty for the students and their loved ones,” said Disu Kamor, Executive Chairman of MPAC.
The group, however, applauded Professor Oloyede’s prompt and transparent handling of the situation.
“By taking personal responsibility and outlining a clear plan to address the problem, Professor Oloyede has shown exemplary accountability and a commitment to finding solutions,” Kamor added.
MPAC urged Nigerians to not lose sight of the tremendous reforms Oloyede has brought to JAMB since his appointment in 2016 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. They described him as a visionary who transformed the Board by eliminating corruption and restoring its credibility.
“His visionary leadership has transformed the Board, ridding it of corruption and ensuring that it serves the interests of Nigeria and Nigerians,” the statement read, while also condemning attacks from “fringe groups and ethnic champions” attempting to exploit the crisis.
MPAC expressed confidence that under Oloyede’s leadership, JAMB will identify the root cause of the glitch, implement long-term preventive solutions, and ensure fairness to all affected candidates.
The group urged the public to reject calls for the registrar’s resignation and to support the Board’s ongoing corrective efforts, while also offering emotional support to impacted candidates.
We can vouch for his integrity: UMA
Also expressing solidarity for Oloyede, the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) said he is a man of integrity.
“Prof. Oloyede is very well known to us at the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA). Although he is not a member of our alumni, he has delivered lectures and keynote addresses at many of our programmes. We can vouch for his integrity,” said Dr. Abdulmumin Alao, UMA’s National President.
UMA firmly refuted claims that the registrar’s tears were staged.
“His tears were not crocodile tears. He is just a passionate stickler for excellence and this costly error by JAMB would naturally bring him to tears,” Alao noted.
According to the group, Oloyede’s strong moral and spiritual conscience likely contributed to his visible emotion.
“Will God forgive him on Judgement Day? That thought is always uppermost in his mind in everything that he does because he is a very conscientious person.”
UMA praised JAMB’s detailed explanation of the glitch, which was traced to specific CBT centres in certain states, allowing the board to identify the exact number of affected applicants who will now be eligible to resit the examination.
While backing the board’s current efforts, UMA called for further independent investigations, particularly into past UTME processes, to uphold the integrity of the examination system.
In conclusion, both organisations reaffirmed their trust in Professor Oloyede and expressed optimism that JAMB will emerge from the crisis stronger and more credible.
“We have every confidence that under Professor Oloyede’s leadership, JAMB will overcome this challenge and continue to serve Nigeria and Nigerians with integrity and dedication,” MPAC concluded.
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