The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has praised the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) under the leadership of Prof. Is-haq Oloyede for upholding the credibility and sanctity of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
In a statement issued by Comrade Akinteye Afeez, the Vice President of External Affairs, the students’ body expressed the necessity of the commendation, given the recent scrutiny faced by the Board’s activities, in which it emerged unblemished.
In addition, the organization has called for a pardon for Miss Mmesoma Ejikeme, the individual at the center of the highest scorer controversy that engulfed the Board.
“While it is praiseworthy to make a lasting impact, it is even more crucial to ensure that the impact is laudable. It is highly commendable that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set the bar high and is maintaining it despite recent developments.
“In the past few days, there has been a controversy surrounding Ms. Ejikeme Mmesoma’s UTME result, dominating public discussions.
“We must constantly emphasize that there are no shortcuts to success. We must all embrace the totality of our arduous struggles. Therefore, we appreciate the significant progress made in the admission process.
“In the past, deceitful individuals were able to escape with their corrupt actions due to inconsistent systems. However, under the leadership of the current Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, integrity has been restored to the system. The exam process has become transparent and reliable, and we commend Prof. Is-haq Oloyede for implementing timely reforms and for upholding the Board’s integrity,” the statement read.
While emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the reputation of the examination body from being tarnished, NANS called for clemency for Ejikeme, stating that the baby should not be thrown out with the bathwater.
“The NANS, National Vice-President of External Affairs, kindly requests the Board and its leadership to exercise mercy, regardless of the negative impact the recent controversy may have caused. Removing her altogether would be detrimental, as her brilliance is an asset that should not be lost.
“Certainly, the individual involved has learned valuable lessons. However, as a society, we should not deny her the opportunity to pursue her dreams and rectify her mistakes. She is young and inexperienced, and her eagerness to excel consumed her. Therefore, we plead with your leadership to review the decision of banning her from taking the UTME and exclude her from gaining admission to any institution of her choice.
“Consequently, we hope that the Board will reconsider its decision. We also appeal to the entire student community to refrain from engaging in acts of corruption. True honor lies in striving for excellence through legitimate means.
“Furthermore, we urge the society at large to support the Board in ensuring that any individual involved in such misconduct in the future is held accountable.”